Mufflers where to buy them?

[Sam D.]

For a 1964 365 hp, were can I purchase the correct mufflers, my pipe line is ok, any referrals on them. Do I need Aluminized or stainless?

Thanks,

Sam

[Joe L.]

Re: Mufflers where to buy them?

Sam-----

A lot depends upon what you want. If what you seek is 100% correct, original configuration, then the only thing you can do is look for a set of GM NOS N-11 off-road muffler/pipe assemblies. These will provide virtually exact, as-original configuration.

Otherwise, your best bet is Allen's Exhaust Systems in Logansport, IN. They can provide you with the "closest to original" that you're going to get anywhere.

Keep in mind that original GM exhaust systems had the rear pipe welded at the muffler----there was no slip or "bell" joint. SERVICE mufflers, including GM mufflers for standard exhaust when available, require the shortening of the rear exhaust pipe to mate with the extension and slip joint of the SERVICE muffler. This creates a configuration which was not used in PRODUCTION and it's easily discerned as such.

Allan's can supply you with a reproduction muffler with welded-on exhaust pipe, as original. However, the configuration of the pipe will not be exactly the same as original.

For strict originality considerations, you would have to use plain, carbon steel pipes. Aluminized are more durable and "close" to the originals. Stainless is the ultimate in durability and "clean" appearance, but not good, at all, from an originality perspective.

All original mufflers had aluminized shells, so for originality, that's what you need. For the ultimate in durability, stainless is the way to go.

NONE of the reproduction mufflers sold today will reproduce the sound of original mufflers.

[Sam D.]

Re: Mufflers where to buy them?

Thanks Joe this help allot. I will look into the aluminized muffler. My car is very original, however if I loose a few points on the Muffler, that's ok.

Sam

[John D.]

Re: Allen's exhaust

Sam, For my mid 63 I had saved a set of NOS off road exhaust in the attic for many years. Then found out they would not fit because the floor pan was in the way. Bought a complete exhaust system from Allen's. Aluminized steel. Joe Lucia in a previous post was the one that convinced me that this was the way to go. He didn't mention it this time but as far as NCRS judging goes Allen's is actually closer to being correct that say a NOS set of off road because of all the embossed numbers and crap written all over the mufflers. Are I correct Joe?
Meanwhile they fit perfect and look sharp. Sound for my FI car is nice too. Not as loud as off road but the car didn't have that anyhow. Maybe not as "throaty" but good enough. Judges at Marlborough didn't ding me at all for the exhaust. But if you plan on showing the car Same stay away from the stainless. Highly recommend the entire system and it's quite affordable. About 350 or 375 plus about $50.00 UPS shipping. John

[Mark #28455]

They didn't ding you for the bends?

The repro exhausts have the wrong style bends. Didn't the judges pick up on that? I know the 1969 JM specifically calls out for a deduction for aluminized exhaust pipes - they missed that too?

Go figure!

Mark

[John D.]

Re: They didn't ding you for the bends?

Mark, I got no dings for the exhaust. The judges were master judges-father and son team and did a good job. Meanwhile I just ran my 63 for over 1/2hour. Sat on a chair behind the car and was listening to the exhaust while the FI engine was idling at about 875-900 and boy it sounded good. Sounded mean so all the hype I hear about the sound not being the same is questionable. The pass side exhaust fit 100% perfect. The left side needed tweaked just a touch. Exhaust extensions are in perfect alignment coming thru the bezels. I wouldn't hesitate to buy this system again even if I got a ding on the bends which I did not. Meanwhile use a NOS off the road and you will get a ding on the mufflers as they are not the real deal as mentioned before. Besides being big bucks on top of that they are service replacements and therefore should get written up as such. Joe Lucia mentioned this and others have in past posts. John

[Dick W.]

Re: They didn't ding you for the bends?

I believe that if you look in the judging reference manual you will see standard deductions for aluminized exhaust. The bends should merit a dedutction also.