'57 exhaust chrome

[Brian W.]

I took the exhaust trim set (the part where the exhaust exits the body)off my '57. The vertical top piece and the round section were one piece with the vertical body section a second piece. A total of two pieces each side. These parts were polished cast aluminum. I can't find any cast numbers anywhere. Were these used on early '57's or were they some type of after-market piece? Has anyone seen these before? Thanks in advance.
Brian

[James F.]

Re: '57 exhaust chrome

Brian,
Originally the exhaust chrome consisted of three all steel pieces. A lower verticle spear (long) with a flat ring at the exhaust end. A round exhaust bezel which attached to the ring of the lower spear. Lastly, a short top vertical spear. It would be interesting to know the history of your aluminum pieces (a good Restorer article). Someone at some time went to a lot of trouble to duplicate these in cast aluminum. Any evidence of other non original efforts? Regards,

[Brian W.]

Re: '57 exhaust chrome

Jim:
I have the steel chromed reproduction ones but had not taken these aluminum ones off until now. You're right someone went to a lot of trouble to cast these parts if its only a one-shot deal. They're a real good casting. I haven't seen any other odd pieces yet.
Brian

[Mark S.]

Re: '57 exhaust chrome

Some of the first reproductions were done in aluminum. I remember reading some of Sam Foltz's original critiques on reproduction parts, referencing aluminum exhaust parts. I have also had a set of these and have seen others.

[Dave Suesz]

I put cast pieces on years ago...

The lower spears on the rear of my '55 were rotten, and the only repo available at the time was cast (though not aluminum, which is the devil's own to chrome plate). Never bothered to find steel ones because these look so good no judge has ever spotted them.