1972 exhaust and Top Flite question status

[Michael C.]

I have a 1972 coupe that I am slowly trying to get in condition to achieve a Top Flite award on the car. The exhaust system was replaced in 1999 before I purchased this machine. I only know this because I was given all the old receipts. Along the side rails of the frame there are a few holes [both sides of car] Could it be that at one time somebody installed side pipes ?? Or are these holes normal ?? If they are not supposed to be there and the exhaust system is back to stock , would this knock the car out of any chance of reciving a Top Flite award if every thing else is as it should be ?? Thanks for your help. Mike Chase

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1972 exhaust and Top Flite question status

Mike,

Relax. The holes are normal.

Even if they weren't, they wouldn't knock it out of Top Flight. Very few things (maybe only one) will knock you out of Top Flight. It's the accumulation of little things that will get you. You can get up to 280 points deducted out of 4500 possible before you lose your Top Flight.

Or, as Jack Humphrey says, drive your car to a meet, and gain free judging points. I drove my 72 535 miles each way to a Regional and guaranteed myself a Top Flight (the car did well enough though, too).

I'd suggest you get the 70-72 Technical Information manual and Judging Guide from the NCRS store, as well as the NCRS Judging Reference manual. They will answer a lot of questions, like "what will keep my car from getting Top Flight." In addition, request a list of the current Judging Score Sheets from Roy Sinor.

Patrick

[Michael C.]

Re: 1972 exhaust and Top Flite question status

Thank You Patrick, sure do appreciate your help and the good news. Mike Chase