Small Block with Big Block Exhaust?

[redledsled]

Hi everyone,

I have a '65 C20 which used to have a 454. The previous owner kept the engine, but left the brand new exhaust system. I'm looking to drop in a 350 and would like to use the exhaust if I can, but I'm not sure if there are any exhaust manifolds or headers for a small block that will bolt up right. Any ideas? Thank you a lot.

[Heater63]

you're correct; it will not be a bolt together piece of cake. Once your engine is in, with either cast manifolds or headers, you will have to have a muffler shop connect to the existing exhaust pipes. But, that's minor, it sounds like most of your system will be able to stay the same, probably from the firewall back won't need to be changed.

[redledsled]

Originally Posted by Heater63

you're correct; it will not be a bolt together piece of cake. Once your engine is in, with either cast manifolds or headers, you will have to have a muffler shop connect to the existing exhaust pipes. But, that's minor, it sounds like most of your system will be able to stay the same, probably from the firewall back won't need to be changed.

Thank you. Do you think I'd be able to use stock manifolds for this? Any idea how much it would cost?

[Captainfab]

What manifolds or which headers to use will partially depend on what transmission you will be running.

[redledsled]

Originally Posted by Captainfab

What manifolds or which headers to use will partially depend on what transmission you will be running.

I'm running the original 4-Speed if that helps. Man, I wish I had a camera.

[Heater63]

manuals are smaller than auto's, so it should be easier. You need to go talk to your local muffler shop now, they will have to make the "connection" your going to need.

[redledsled]

Sweet, thanks for your help!

[Captainfab]

Then you're going to have to be careful which manifolds or headers you choose. Not all of them will work with a manual trans in these trucks. Namely, clearing the clutch bellcrank.

Originally Posted by redledsled

I'm running the original 4-Speed if that helps. Man, I wish I had a camera.

[argonaut]

Or you can go with a hydraulic clutch actuator...

Any good exhaust shop should be able to make the modification pretty quickly and easily. You may need some new flanges depending on what manifold or header you use and what was used before.

[redledsled]

I found out that the 454 used headers if that helps. I'd like a hydraulic actuator, but I don't have too much money for a month or so.

[Captainfab]

Since the exhaust for the 454 was setup for headers, it would be easier to hook up to the small block if you used headers again.