I have a 1975 Corvette and was wondering if I can put headers on it. In California the '75 still has to have a catalitic converter, by law. Can I put a '74 exhaust on my '75? If so, how well will it fit with the headers? Are there any modifications that need to be made in order for it to work?

Does anybody have any suggestions on some LOW-END exhaust and headers?

 

Answer #1 - Yes
Answer #2 - Yes but you need some custom work done to go from the collectors to the stock exhaust.

Question - If CA law says you still need a cat, then how's the '74 exhaust going to help? I thought they only went back 30 years but could be wrong. There's lots of headers and exhaust systems out there. Personally I would go with some Jet Hot coated headers and stock pipes and whatever mufflers you like.

 

Well from what I've found out is that you can't buy regular pipes for a '75. They only have "Y" pipes for the '75 (which then runs to the cat.). I have found places that sell '74 pipes that are not "Y" pipes. What I'm trying to find out, is will the '74 pipes fit my '75, even though they are not "Y" pipes. Here's an example from Eckler's:


'70 - '74: Regular Pipes


'75 - '76: Y-Pipes

So you said that there is some "custom" work that needs to be done to go from the collectors to the stock exhaust in order for this to work, right? Well, what kind of custom work would need to be done? Do you have experience in doing a project like this? I don't really have a mechanic's shop in my garage so I would like to know that I have the right tools before I go hammering away.

Thanks for the input.

 

As long as your cross member still has the pass-thru tube/hole for the left side exhaust, you can use the '70-'74 pipes. If you plan on any engine upgrades, I would recommend the L82 2.5" exhaust.

Have you considered the '69 factory side exhaust? Pricey but you can't beat it for looks IMO. (Excuse the quality of pic as is scanned print. Car is not currently photogenic)


[IMG]local://upfiles/1957/8C36D081A3EC49158ED23BABB9BACD2D.jpg[/IMG]

The custom work involves cutting, bending, and welding.

 

73shark, good quality, bad quality.....that's still a great lookin' car. can't wait to get my '73 breathin'. I sit in it now and make believe like a kid.

as for the custom work on the exhaust... you can do it, it's not too dificult. you can get any bends done at your local muffler shop and rent the welder if they won't weld it up for you. Good luck with it anyway.