Removing side exhaust from a 1964

[Brendan K.]

Hi,

I recently viewed a 64 that needs restoration. Side exhaust has been installed. The steel tabs that hang down vertically behind the rocker panel cover have been cut off (I think they are called the "body sill molding brackets").

Would it be necessary to replace these tabs if I wanted to remove the side exhaust to return the car to its original configuration? If so, is it difficult to replace these tabs?

Thank you,
Brendan

[Jack H.]

Re: Removing side exhaust from a 1964

Since side exhaust was an option contemplated for 1964 and then cancelled, it's an automatic full deduction on exhaust for a '64 Corvette to have side pipes. PLUS, the version of side exhaust originally designed for use in '64 was VERY different than what actually made its way to production in '65-67.

So, the answer is YES you'll want to un-do the prior owner's option addition IF your intention is to make the car factory concours correct. The 'hangers' were simply spot welded to the bottom of the car's sill plates and replacements can be obtained and installed. Their relative position is called out in your copy of the AIM (Assembly Instruction Manual). You'll need them to support the correct original rocker panel moldings.

Plus, other modifications were made to accommodate the side exhaust option (cuts in body fiberglass for clearance, Etc.) and these changes (if made) also have to be un-done...

[Donald T.]

Re: Removing side exhaust from a 1964

Bendan,

If you want to install the rocker molding after removing the side exhaust then you will need to replace the rocker brackets. Now the bad news. In order to replace the rocker brackets, you need to lift the body off the frame. The brackets are spot welded to the birdcage and the only way to gain access is with the body off the frame. Then you will need to remove the remnants of the old brackets and weld on the new brackets with very precise measurements so the mounting holes line up with the rocker molding when done.

An alternative would be to attach new brackets onto the remains of the old brackets with sheet metal screws. I have seen them attached this way before and seemed to work. Not the right way of attaching the brackets but a whole lot easier than lifting the body.

[Brendan K.]

Re: Removing side exhaust from a 1964

Thank you for both of your replies! This is exactly the information I needed.