C3 muffler question......

[Terry F.]

Did service replacement mufflers ever come painted black over the GM counter? Thanks, Terry

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Terry-----

DEFINITELY. Every GM #3960602 (2", RH) that I ever purchased for my 1969 was painted black. However, the paint was only on the bottom side of the muffler.

I have a pretty large collection of NOS GM #3943385 and 3943386 (2-1/2") mufflers. Some are painted (completely) and some are not painted, at all.

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Interesting. I just purchased some pipes and fufflers. I was satisfied with the deal because at least one set of pipes was original. I was uncertain about the 2 1/2 inch mufflers though. I didn't notice a "W" stamped on them anywhere. I will get them in a few days and look at them closely. Maybe they are original??? I will probably put them on my car

Now, did all the rear replacement pipes have that unusual bend to them where it sort of kinks out as they bent it?? Two sets of pipes look very original except they have that sort of stretch and bend appearance to them. They are steel and they are flattened though?? Thanks a bunch! Terry

[Warren F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Terry,

The original pipes were flatened on the bottom side in about five places, they are carbon steel and double walled.

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

What about original replacement pipes?? Are they extra thick also?? Thanks, Terry

[Warren F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Yes. I've had several GM NOS service pipes. They all have that outside ribbed section upon a severe bend.

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

I am looking for a set of front bb pipes for my 68 4 speed. Have any?? Terry

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Terry-----

All original rear pipes, both 2" and 2-1/2", were die formed. They have the "ribbed" appearance at the bends. They were also "flattened" in certain sections. None of the front pipes had the "ribs" nor were they "flattened" in any way.

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Did all service replacement mufflers have the "W" stamped on them? Thanks, Terry

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

These mufflers appear to also have the hanger attachment points for both the C2 and C3 corvette?? They are also appear to have the thinner body, not like the more ovoid shape that reproduction seem to have. Terry

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Terry-----

Many did. Some had an "A" (for Arvin). All the ones I've seen have had one or the other. I haven't seen every one, though.

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

Terry-----

The only GM SERVICE mufflers that I know of that had the dual brackets were the 2-1/2" GM #3943385 and 3943386. These became the SERVICE mufflers for 2-1/2" C2 and 68-72 C3 in late 1968. However, many aftermarket SERVICE mufflers have dual brackets, too. Any 2" mufflers with dual brackets are guaranteed to be aftermarket. GM never offered such a muffler.

The SHELL configuration for all GM PRODUCTION and SERVICE mufflers, 2" or 2-1/2", for the 63-72 period was the same.

[Terry F.]

Re: C3 muffler question......

I will have to look them over and send a picture of them to you when they arrive. Thanks for the help, Terry