Dual Exhaust System is Installed
The original "X" system was removed last Thursday and a complete new system fabricated using 2 1/4" and 2 1/2" aluminized exhaust pipe, two free flowing cats, two free flowing mufflers and no crossover pipe.
Two 2 1/4" pipes were formed to run from the headers down to the individual cats and back through the two holes in the frame. The 2 1/4" tubing was used to help clear the automatic shift linkage, to provide ample clearance through the frame holes to allow for engine torque and movement and finally to create a bit of back pressure on the engine.
From the frame holes reaerward, 2 1/2" tubing was used to "open up" the systems breathing and sound resonance and to create a bit of draw from the engine. The polished stainless steel exhaust tips were 2 1/4", but I prefer the 2 1/2". The only seams in the system were at the connections to/from the cats and mufflers and these were mig welded.
As info, I am running a new GM crate engine rated at 330 HP with Hedman "Tight Tubes" header. The reason I went with the dual exhaust was because I needed a new cat installed and the $250 estimate was almost half the cost of the complete system. Besides, I always wanted dual exhausts since I was a teenager.
I did not expect a major power or torque boost and figured whatever I gained was icing on the cake.
I didn't really notice a great deal of difference at first, other than the sound. But the more I continued to "push" the engine, the more I noticed how fluid, torguey and smooth the engine ran. "It's my imagination" I thought, as everyone that spends $$$ wants to believe that there is an improvement. But the more I run the car and the harder I push it, the better the engine performs.
My recommendations to others would include: 1) Seek out a local exhaust expert to hand form, bend and create your new system. Kits are fine and easy to install, but I recommend that you participate in designing your own individual system and have it made specifically to suit your car and you. 2) When in doubt about whether or not to install cats, think about installing them. Today's cats are light weight (less than two pounds), well made and provide little restiction - plus they are inexpensive, costing about $75 each. In addition, the cats I purchased have a lifetime guarantee. The same thing with the mufflers, light weight and about $75 each. 3) Whatever system you decide upon, try to keep the exhaust pipes away from the rear differential. I have learned that prolonged exposure to the stock "X" system that is directly under the rear end differential can cause overheating and excelerated wear inside the differential. If you are curious about this problem, grab the top of either rear wheel and pull/push back and forth. If you feel and hear a bit of slop, chances are your rear end axle tips are worn. Change the differential oil and posi-traction additive every 10,000 miles to help avoid this problem.
That's about it. Thanks to evryone for their input and help. This Forum is more helpfull than a 1/2" breaker bar when it comes to working on Vettes.