Stupid Sidepipe question

[wrc3]

Ok I am probably going to install the hooker headers and sidepipes this weekend, but I have a really stupid question. Which way do the glasspack mufflers go in the sidepipes?

They look like they could be slipped in either way. Looking down the center tube of the muffler I can see what look like bumps. On one side of the bump they are open like scoops and on the other side they are bumps. So I am guessing the scoops should point to the rear of the vehicle? It looks more aerodynamic for exhaust flow, but it is just a guess.

 

[1979toy]

There is a very slight flair to one end of the muffler. Lay a straight edge on them and you can see it. The flair goes in last so that it can seal the muffler to the pipe.

 

[wrc3]

thanks!

I'll look closer at them. I appreciate the help.

 

[vmrod]

I have read in performance magazines, that the 'scoops' are typically supposed to point forward. This is to direct the flow properly into the sound-absorbing/reflecting materials. However, it was noted that you could possibly install it the opposite way. By having the scoops pointing downstream of the exhaust flow, it allows for much better flow. (as you had noted) Unfortunately, it will be louder.

-Vic

 

[72Mako]

I'm been running the Hookers on mine for about 20 yrs. When you install the muffler tube onto the header, you might think about using hi-temp antiseize compound. If you ever have to take them back apart, you will have a fightiing chance by doing this. Charles

 

[vmrod]

How is the sound? Is it REALLY loud? I've been debating with myself about sidepipes, but I'm afraid they will attract too much unwanted police attention.

-Vic

 

[bossvette]

How is the sound? Is it REALLY loud? I've been debating with myself about sidepipes, but I'm afraid they will attract too much unwanted police attention.

-Vic

Hooker Sidepipes sound bite

:cool

 

[wrc3]

Way Cool!!!

I can't wait to get these things on!!!

 

[Smokehouse69]

Hooker Glasspacks suck!

I'd think seriously about dumping those Hooker glasspacks and going with some STS Spiral Baffle inserts. They really aren't any louder than the glasspacks and they won't rob your engine of horsepower like the very restrictive glasspacks will.

http://www.spiralturbobaffles.com

 

[1BAD69]

;stupid

junk those glass packs and get some baffles....you are robbing yourself of lots of HP with the glass packs...

 

[wrc3]

Hp

Let's be honest it is an L-48 350 with no upgrades. I mean really how much HP am I losing versus how little I already have. The engine is in great shape though and after rebuilding the Q-Jet it runs great, so I am not going to junk it. I am getting the headers and sidepipes, so that down the line when I do get some type of performance engine (both when my old engine gives out and I have the money to buy a new one). So for now HP is not my greatest concern.

I know that only leaves looking and sounding cool which is kind of cheesy, but I have replaced the suspension and brakes, so the car is coming along one chunk at a time.

 

[cruzer99]

Get ready to burn the back of your legs on the sidepipes for the first month.
I had more dates burn a set of nylons up getting out of the car than I care to think about!!!!!!

 

[billyvette]

what coating is best?

for the first month.
I

Get ready to burn the back of your legs on the sidepipes had more dates burn a set of nylons up getting out of the car than I care to think about!!!!!!

I can imagine you heard about those leg burns. ad girls
My question is what coating does everybody have, chrome, ceramic, or black.

presently considering the ceramic coating, due to chrome rusting.

what kind of durability has everyone had?

 

[wrc3]

Coating

I actually ordered my headers straight from jet hot. It is some sterling ceramic coating that I have heard good things about. Looks almost like chrome and they have a life time guarantee against rust. Out of Pascagoula, so if you are local to them maybe you can swing by and check out their operation.

 

[72Mako]

I didn't want to influence you but I have to agree with some of the other posters. You may give some thought to returning the Hooker glasspacks for a refund and putting the money towards the STS spiralbaffles. You can read about my car under the STS's website testimonials (provided above). Basically I went from 103 mph to 107 mph in the quarter with only the addition of the STS spiral baffles. Mph increase is a good indicator of H.P. My original set of Hooker chrome sidepipes lasted for 17 years before they rusted out. When I ordered a new set, I couldn't bring myself to install the the Hooker glasspacks. Most H.P. vettes come with a 2 1/2" exhaust system. Take a tape measure and measure the I.D. of the Hooker glasspack. It is under 2"! Talk about going backwards. To my ear, the STS baffles are somewhat louder than the Hooker glasspacks but not objectionable. They are a quality product and Jim is a good guy to deal with. Charles

 

[wrc3]

Argh!!

You guys are killin' me. I had heard of the Turbo Baffles, but they are almost double the glasspacks cost, so I strayed from them thinking it wasn't that big a deal...now I am reconsidering. I will go ahead and put the headers on and get the sidepipes all ready to fit and then do some thinkin about the mufflers. What does the lower back pressure do for me at low end torque? Keep in mind I have a stock L-48 350.

 

[wrc3]

Sidepipes and Emissions

Get ready to burn the back of your legs on the sidepipes for the first month.
I had more dates burn a set of nylons up getting out of the car than I care to think about!!!!!!

So what did you guys with post 74 era vehicles do with all your emissions stuff? Leave it and plug it or what?

 

[Smokehouse69]

Other Options

If you don't want to spend the money on the STS baffles, there are some other spiral baffles available from Jeg's and Summit that are much cheaper, they are mild steel so they won't hold up as long.
As for your torque question, I think that there will still be enough header length and backpressure that your L48's torque ought to really improve instead of suffer.
You probably should get used to the fact that the pipes are going to be louder than poop, no matter which mufflers or baffles you go with.
Good Luck!

 

[tscott9330]

Ok, I think you should go with the baffles instead of the glass packs. Those glass packs are going to be AT LEAST as restrictive as the stock exhaust. You will see an across the board improvement in performance. the improved flow will creates better blow down and improve cylinder filling. I really dont think it will cost you any low end torque, as a matter of fact it should improve torque and horsepower across the board. Just my 2 cents worth

Tom

 

[CrevetteRouge]

Interesting thread.
Out of curiosity, for those who tried it, what's the budget between headers, sidepipes and spiral?