Start by placing the car up securely on jack stands. The higher it is, the easier it is to work with.
When you have removed your old exhaust system, lay the new system out on the floor loosely assembled, so you will get an idea how it will go together.
Install all of the correct hangers, The right muffler hangers and clamps makes the whole installation easier. Do not use any universal fit-all hangers or clamps.
If your Vette has exhaust tip bezels, it is a good idea to remove the old ones and install them on the new system now. With the old system out of the way, removal and installation is so much easier. It is also a good idea to install a new heat riser and gasket when ever you are installing a new system.
Start your pipe installation, by putting the header pipes on first, install them loosely. Do not tighten them. You want them to be able to move, so that you can install and align the exhaust pipes. It is also a good idea to install exhaust header pipe studs and brass nuts. These studs and nuts come in different thread sizes and lengths, so be careful when selecting the fasteners.
Now install the exhaust pipes and mufflers, Here is an helpful hint, use a bungee cord to hold the muffler in place at the rear, while you insert and align the exhaust pipe into the header pipe. This is like having an extra pair of hands during the installation.
Slide the header pipe into the exhaust pipe and loosely tighten the stainless steel clamp. Now install the muffler and pipe to the muffler hanger, again loosely tighten the muffler clamp. Working from the rear of the car, start to align the system. Make sure the exhaust pipe outlet is in the middle of the exhaust cutout area. If the Corvette has an exhaust pipe extension such as the '73, you want it to be centered in the opening. When you get the outlet centered, check the muffler and pipe for clearance. Make sure it will not interfere with the rear springs, frame, suspension, etc., as the body moves.
Also make sure that the system is not hanging too low, you do not want it hitting the ground, when you go over bumps. Nothing looks worse than a low hanging exhaust system.
After the rear system is aligned and set, work to the front of the system. Tighten the header pipes and flange to the exhaust manifold studs last. When one side is done, repeat the whole process on the other side. Remember to keep checking for clearance and low hanging pipes. If you feel you have everything aligned properly, tighten everything to factory specifications. The torque specs should accompany the new system.
Now comes the true test, take the car out for a ride and listen for rattles, vibrations or banging pipes. If you hear of any of these sounds, place the Vette back on the jack stands and re-align the pipes.


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