I want side pipes!!! When I look for side exhaust, I always find that side exhaust for 1977 is for "off road use only".  What is that all about?  Can I put side pipes on my 77 or not?  If yes... can you send info on where to get these?

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Im pretty sure the "off road use" thing is basically stating you cant use em if you have any emissions testing. That having been said I just installed some hooker header and side pipes on my 77. They rock!


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Im pretty sure the "off road use" thing is basically stating you cant use em if you have any emissions testing. That having been said I just installed some hooker header and side pipes on my 77. They rock!


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If it's for performance use on a limited usage car that doesn't need a catalytic converter to pass inspection, you should be fine.

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http://www.summitracing.com/search/Brand/Hooker-Headers/Make/CHEVROLET/Year/1977/Engine-Size/5-7L-350/Model/CORVETTE/?Ns=Rank%7cAsc

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In my area of Western NY we are subjected to a visual inspection, no sniffer test. That left me with a dilemma to solve. I've always want "N11" '69 side pipes on the '81. Problem was if there was a catalytic converter installed, there better be one installed. Yes there are repair shops around that will look the other way and slap a inspection sticker on. But I don't want to put anyone in jeopardy of losing their inspection license and being fined on top of that.

Sooooo......I went do to the local muffler shop and searched through their assortment of "OBD I" compliant catalytic converters. After selecting a set of cats I commenced to cutting, grinding, tack welding. After many hours I fitting them into the head pipes with plenty of clearance between the frame and the ground. Everything came out even and symmetrical.

I was going to finish smoothing out the welds and have them ceramic coated but I'm going to wait until after I do the "Baby LS1" install next year. I know I will be cutting and refitting the head pipes again. I also want to fit a crossover or "balance" pipe between the head pipes to hopefully enhance the sound a bit.

If you click on my cardomain link below there should be some pics of my cat install.



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GEN III 5.7L "LS6" Engine swap
TKO500 5 spd.

Purrrfection.....as usual! can't wait to see it!

ebo

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LIFETIME MEMBER 151

I had them on my 75,however they don't weather well if you don't have a garage.I just had mine taken off this past weekend.That said the do look cool on a C3.                           Rick

I appreciate all the comments!

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Thanks for the link!

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Federal law takes precedence over any state laws when it comes to emissions and I believe that law is essentially that any original emissions equipment must remain intact.  That being said, in my part of Washington state, emissions inspections are not required for cars 25 years and older.  So it's fairly common around here to have older vehicles without proper emissions equipment (me included - no cats, no EGR) 

Sarge81 - FYI, I'm not so sure that a crossover or X-pipe will improve the sound.  I have a buddy with a '79 that has dual 2 1/2" Magnaflows and X pipes.  I have the same setup minus the X-pipe and I think my system sounds better (although it's been almost two years since I've heard it .)  IMHO, the crossover almost makes the sound too mild and quiet.  My long range plan involves chambered exhaust to replace the Magnas - side pipe sound without side pipes!  I've also heard that dual cats without any mufflers at all produces a pretty good sound.  

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I live in an area in Ohio that does not conduct emmision testing.  There are several circumstances for permanent exemptions also.

1. Vehicles more than 25 years old, as determined by vehicle model year;
2. Commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating;
3. Historical and collector's vehicles - contact Ohio BMV for details;
4. Parade and exhibition vehicles - contact Ohio BMV for details;
5. Motorcycles, recreational vehicles and motor homes - contact Ohio BMV for details;

I have Collector Plates on my '80 and since it is more than 25 years old, I will never be checked.  That being said, I have no cat and have installed Patriot tight tuck headers and a MagnaFlow exhaust.  With the other engine mods I have made, the car has never run better.

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Chuck