1976 Exhaust system

[Rick B.]

Trying to complete the restoration of my 76 L48. Found the exhaust system, but it is clearly not it in ideal show condition. Any thoughts on how to clean it up to look nice again? I was thinking I could just take steel wool to the pipes, but my hangers look a little rough. As I recall these were all "natural" parts, so if I blast the hangers how can I hold the natural finish? Also the cat does not look correct. After looking at the Judging guide, it is apparent someone must have changed it out. In an effort not to lose anymore points than possible, is there anyone who specializes in these old cats around?

[Ralph S.]

Re: 1976 Exhaust system

Rick, I have a new GM Muffler 356971 in the original box for 75-76 Corvette ( Left side )

[Joe L.]

Re: 1976 Exhaust system

Trying to complete the restoration of my 76 L48. Found the exhaust system, but it is clearly not it in ideal show condition. Any thoughts on how to clean it up to look nice again? I was thinking I could just take steel wool to the pipes, but my hangers look a little rough. As I recall these were all "natural" parts, so if I blast the hangers how can I hold the natural finish? Also the cat does not look correct. After looking at the Judging guide, it is apparent someone must have changed it out. In an effort not to lose anymore points than possible, is there anyone who specializes in these old cats around?

Rick------


Yes, everything was natural steel finish, although I believe the mufflers were painted low gloss black. If you're talking about returning it to its original appearance, forget it. You'll never be able to do it. Plus, even if you could do it, it would not stay that way for very long.

[Rick B.]

Re: 1976 Exhaust system

Rick, I have a new GM Muffler 356971 in the original box for 75-76 Corvette ( Left side )

Thanks Ralph I have a pair of original mufflers the should work. Just trying to clean things up a bit for judging. Would like to find an original cat if you know where one of those is let me know.

[Tom R.]

Re: 1976 Exhaust system

Thanks Ralph I have a pair of original mufflers the should work. Just trying to clean things up a bit for judging. Would like to find an original cat if you know where one of those is let me know.

I picked one up a few years ago with a date code of 1976 and then got one with a date code of 78, which is what I needed. If interested, drop me a note. I dig it out of storage once the earth thaws from are run in with climate change.