C3 (1972 mufflers)

[Hank H.]

I have read the archived threads and there is a wealth of information. To summarize, my understanding is that the Corvette Central system is a welded pipe to mufflers (don't know if it is butt welded or slip joint welded), but that the pipes themselves don't accurately duplicate ripples in the bends, etc. On the othe hand, I understand that the Gardner system does a great job on the pipes, but the mufflers are slip joint to pipe and even if welded, they will not pass without a deduct. It appears that neither have a"W" on the mufflers. Do I have this about right, and is there any recommendation on which system or some other will provide a lesser deduct. Thanks

[Terry M.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

The early production Gardner pipes (the only ones I have seen) had pipes welded to the mufflers as original. From those same threads you read I understand there was, or are, some muffler differences in the more recent production. Specifically the location of the muffler seam is now, or was for a time, different than originals. I also believe Gardner will not make carbon steel pipes, so there will be finish issues.

Others may be able to offer more up to the minutre information.

No reproduction mufflers have the embossed W because that stands for Walker, and there are trademark issues.

[Patrick H.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

The Gardner system "may" result in a lesser deduct but only you can determine if it's worth the "points per dollar" that is involved as it is your car and your money.

I've been very happy with the Corvette Central systems in a few cars and understand the approximate 50% deduction. Until Gardner gets the last few details right I'll stay with what I have.

[Paul O.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Hank the Gardner pipes to muffler connection is a double weld one at the muffler and then at the short extension to the rear pipe. All the service non GM mufflers have several Config issues
1. End caps to body of the muffler the clamping point are rounded then flat then rounded instead of a nice continuous rounded clamping.
2. Some have the body seam pointing outboard the GM mufflers always point inboard both sides left and right toward the tire tube.
3. Missing "W" as Terry stated.
4. Some use non typical materials for the muffler shell.

The only pipes and mufflers that receive full credit are original pipes and mufflers or GM over the counter service replacements that are that the mufflers and rear pipes are welded in a craftsman manner. All other receive varying degrees of deductions.

Paul 18046

[Russ S.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

I have read the archived threads and there is a wealth of information. To summarize, my understanding is that the Corvette Central system is a welded pipe to mufflers (don't know if it is butt welded or slip joint welded), but that the pipes themselves don't accurately duplicate ripples in the bends, etc. On the othe hand, I understand that the Gardner system does a great job on the pipes, but the mufflers are slip joint to pipe and even if welded, they will not pass without a deduct. It appears that neither have a"W" on the mufflers. Do I have this about right, and is there any recommendation on which system or some other will provide a lesser deduct. Thanks

Hank, Corvette Centrals system is welded right at the muffler like it should be- not at the extension. CC builds their own exhaust systems in house. I spoke with them and it sounded like they may special order a system for you if you have a specific request. That doesn't mean that they can fulfil each and every request we may have.

[Pete B.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Agree with all the above and this may or may not be a priority but the Covette Central ones are 1/2 price and many times they have a special with free shipping. Thats a big one as the boxes are HUGE.

My system fit like a glove

[Tom R.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

I judged a Corvette Central set on a 78 and was impressed with similarity of its configuration to original. Of course, it did not have the W and date code so the appropriate deductions were made but a nice service replacement set.

[Alan S.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Hi Hank,
I'm in the process of putting a CC, sb, welded exhaust system on my 71.
I'm very pleased with it for the cost including only $35 shipping to MD.
I installed one side on Tuesday and will work on the other side this morning. The welds for the pipe are right at the rear plate of the muffler. I wish I'd read Russ's note about perhaps having the mufflers flipped so the seams could be in-board.
The first side I installed fit without a problem.
I bought the 4 clamps from Paragon. The guillotine clamps for use at the mid-pipe connection look very good but have some size and mfg info stamped on them. I was able remove it. The 2 clamps for the tips have some plating which I'm not sure the originals typically had.
I also bought repro exhaust bezels which appear to be surprisingly accurate except that the chrome plating might be a bit to nice.
The exhaust tips form Richard Fortier are everything they have been decribed on this board to be.
Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan

[Kevin G.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

I wish I'd read Russ's note about perhaps having the mufflers flipped so the seams could be in-board.

Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan

Not so easy! Simply flipping the mufflers wouldn't work, would it? Due to the off set end plates?

Did you ever end up with some good pictures off the rocker molding mounting points? If not, my camera has been repaired and I'd be happy to snap a shot or two for you?

[Hank H.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Thanks to all for the replies. I believe I will proceed with CC and see if they can flip the mufflers so that the seams are inboard. Already ordered tips from Fortier. Thanks again!

[Alan S.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Hi Kevin,
I believe your thought is correct in that just moving left to right wouldn't work; the tip's outlet would be at the wrong angle. I guess the the muffler manufacturer would have to turn the end plates in the muffler body.
I found a picture of the back-side of the rocker area in Patrick's pictures, but I could still use a close-up if you can. His picture does seem to indicate a flat metal fastener as you showed a week or so ago. I've been able to find some of them to use.
Doing this has almost broken my heart!
Regards,
Alan

PS: The paint around the license plate recess in the valance panel is the original. It has such a sag along the bottom edge that it began to form drips.

[William M.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

The Corvette Central system for my 73 big block was reasonably priced, fits great and received only modest deductions in Flight Judging at the National

[Russ S.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Bill, One thing I see that I believe is wrong with your ex system is the clamps at the trans mount. I believe 73 did not use gillotine style clamps. This belief also coninsides with the jG. I welcome others views.

[Terry M.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)



I think the 1970-72 Chassis judges might have a different point of view regarding the configuration of that system than the 1973-74 judges did. Just my opinion since I don't have a dog in this race any more.

[Paul O.]

Re: C3 (1972 mufflers)

Bill The pipes appear to aluminized that is now a standard deduction of 25% that's to start then the pipes config is not typical 20% of the remaining points and then the date would also be later then the car an additional 20% deduct. The mufflers would also fall into the deductions as above. By following the above deduction process which all judges should follow that is how there would be consistency in the process from Chapter to the Nationals. Then the owners could then decide

Paul 18046