Project Nightmare- 1982 Monte Carlo SS (clone) build

[montessaj]

You need to update your thread Dave, I need some inspiration to do a frame off this winter.

[montessaj]

Not really an update, more looking for some advice/suggestions on my exhaust. My original plan was to do a 3" Pypes exhaust system with an x-pipe, and dump it before the axle or maybe run it out Grand National style. I have a set of QTP electric exhaust cut-outs I bought years ago for this car in 3". I have not bought the exhaust system or mufflers yet. Lately I have been thinking that 3" is a little big for my 450hp motor. I know this is a topic commonly debated, but knowing what you know about my project, what is your suggestion? Should I:

A. Sell the 3" electric exhaust cut-outs, and buy a set of 2.5" exhaust cut-outs and a 2.5" exhaust system and run it out GN style.

B. Keep the 3" stuff, and run 3 inch all the way out.

I really just want whats best for the performance of the car. So I'd really like some insight, suggestions, advice, anything!

[topher455]

If it were an all out strip car or streetfighter Id say go 3" but for a car that will see street miles 2.5" all the way. My 520 hp ls breathes through 2.5" pipes dumped at the rear axle fwiw. The smaller pipe dia will hold on to a bit more torque but will be a bit restrictive on the top end where the larger pipe will give some extra hp at the expense of some torque.

[montessaj]

So if I have the exhuast cut-outs I can open them and regain that top end power if wanted correct? I think I'm going to go ahead and switch to the 2.5" Thanks alot for your help man.

[topher455]

Yea theoretically that will work ;)

[jackfrost]

I think you should get the Pypes 2.5" system w/ GN exits and then let me know how it works.


(p.s. update forthcoming... sorta)

[montessaj]

Well I'm definetly going with the 2.5" for sure now. Anyone want to buy some 3" electric exhaust cut outs?
lol

[FirstGenZq8]

Well I'm definetly going with the 2.5" for sure now. Anyone want to buy some 3" electric exhaust cut outs?
lol

i might. please paste a link to where you bought them.

[youngdeezy]

nice and x2 on pypes 2.5" that setup is great its what i have and another g-body friend of mine. his exhaust system is complete and sounds sweet.

[montessaj]

i might. please paste a link to where you bought them.

I got them from Summit. Here is the link to the motors:


http://www.summitracing.com/parts/QTP-QTEC60/

This is the link to the Actual pipe cut-out portion. I have both, paid a pretty big chunk of change for them 2 years ago.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/QTP-10300/


I'll cut you a deal on the whole set-up if you want them.

[jackfrost]

couldn't you bolt the cutouts on to your headers and then reduce to 2 1/2" from there?

[topher455]

Good idea!

[XLexusTech]

whatever you so please dont but diamond plate over that AC hole :-)

Nice job so far!

[montessaj]

couldn't you bolt the cutouts on to your headers and then reduce to 2 1/2" from there?

I guess I could, will that change the way it performs at all? Loss of power or anything?

Thanks Topher455!

Lexustech: No A/C block off for me, I have a Non-A/C box, so I can still retain the heater.

[topher455]

whatever you so please dont but diamond plate over that AC hole :-)

Nice job so far!

Ouch! We got some diamond plate haters on this site. Wait till you see my interior.

[montessaj]

Update time...


I didn't get TOO much done, but I did do something. I got the car back down on all 4's... finally. I got my oil pan sandblasted and off to the powdercoaters, my trans will be off to the trans shop this week. I did a few other things to the car not really worth mentioning here. Mainly I took a BUNCH of pics so here you go...

On the ground!



Final ride height... J/k lol










Blasted pan...



Some accessory brackets, and my CF Coil mount.



Thats all for now. Hopefully more progress will be made on my four day weekend this weekend. I'm trying to finish it all up by June 18th, thats the weekend of the car show my Uncle Mac used to put on before he passed. Lets just hope I can pull it off.

[topher455]

Sweet! There is a nice stagger between the front and rear. So when you gonna LS it?? LOL

[montessaj]

Nope... I wish lol. I am just doing a 450 hp 383 stroker.

[topher455]

Carb or FI? I cant remember. I knew it was a 383 I was just razzin ya.

[BuddyP]

Awsome! Those wheels fit that car nicely.