69 Vette Mufflers

[Lee T.]

I need to replace the mufflers on my 1969 Corvette, 350/350, 2" diameter exhaust pipes.
For judging purposes, is there particular requirements for the replacement mufflers? If so, what are they?

[Dick W.]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

Nothing other than what is spelled out the the NCRS 1968-'69 Technical Information Manual and Judging Guide

[Chuck S.]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

The biggest single feature is that the original mufflers were welded to the tailpipe, and installed as an assembly. Allen Exhaust is probably the best known repro manufacturer, and you can select from natural steel pipe and galvanized(?) finish muffler as original, stainless steel, or aluminized steel.

Each choice has its pros and cons:

(1) Natural steel will rust like a SOB, and unless continuously treated, it will be ugly as sin in no time. Virtually everyone will say such treatment is impractical for a driven car. This choice will judge best, but is different in minor ways, and will likely still receive minor deducts from an exacting judge.

(2) Stainless steel will last forever, but I expect you'll lose ALL the judging points...not a good choice for a judged car.

(3) Aluminized steel is, in my opinion, the best all-around choice for both driving and judging. It will not rust like natural steel, but still is close in appearance to natural steel. You won't fool the judges; you can only hope they are very familiar with the problem, and will have compassion when they assess your deduct.

The judges will also expect you to have clamps that match the original clamp configuration. Check Paragon for clamps that are close...like virtually all reproductions, a close examination will reveal they are slightly different in configuration from the originals (originals have a stamped letter ID), but they ARE as close as you are going to get. I can't remember if they are in carbon steel or stainless, or both. If you have a choice, select the carbon steel, at least for the pair at the exhaust tips; an observer judge with a magnet can spot stainless as well as a Master Judge.

[Alec Manocchio]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

Dick, if it's that easy why do we even have a forum?

[Myron Sleeva]

Could also change the entire school system. *NM*

[Mark D.]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

Lee,

It is rumored that these guys are very close to releasing a beautiful reproduction of the original system. Give them a call to express interest and see where they stand. The systems they offer for Camaro is outstanding.

Good luck,

Mark

[Mark D.]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

I mean....these guys

http://www.gardnerexhaust.com/gardnermovie.html

[Dave S.]

Re: 69 Vette Mufflers

Mark,
Gardiners has the 2 1/2" prototype done but they are so busy with Camaro's GTO's etc. that the unique Corvette systems are not on their radar screen for production as of yet. No committment as of yet. I understand the final product is very good. They do not have anything done on the 2" systems and are lookin for a donor sample to do a prototype on that. One missing detail will be the "W" on the mufflers due to patent infringement issues. I agree with you that everyone who is interested should call Gardiner's and express their interest. If they get enough calls then they may get more serious about making these systems.