Exhaust?

[lmac1210]

I am in need of new exhaust. I have a 1970 GMC V-Eight and wondering if I can do it myself or should I go get it done. I don't have pipe benders or anything as of yet, so the cost of supplies vs. the cost of getting it done are what I am wondering. Thanks!

[white71chevy]

If u don't have the tools to do it with then it is much much cheaper to pay someone to do it. I got my done a few weeks ago got it ran straight out the back from the headers and it only cost me 160.

[trz1000]

I've done several exhaust systems without a pipe bender. I just get a few 90 degree elbows and cut them up and weld them in the appropriate orientation to make the bends. Takes some trial and error but you get pretty good at it after a while. It doesn't look as clean as a nice mandrel bent system but I can say I did it.

I've never added up the cost but I suspect that I'm not saving a bunch from a budget exhaust shop. A complete system from the manifolds/hedders back, mufflers, clamps, hangers etc probably sets me back $200-$300. Could save quite a bit by not running Flowmasters but I just love them. Plus it's done the way I want it.

It takes a lot of time to do it but if you're patient and handy with a welder then it's not that bad.

[cdowns]

there are quality all in one kits available from LMC truck and jcwhitney to name a few //pretty cheap with everything in one box and easily installed in a weekend with normal hand tools and common sence


i'd first see what a local shop would charge then compare to the kit price