Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

[Michael C.]

Looking for input on best exhaust options for my 72 ls5. It has factory exhaust manifolds.

Thanks Mike

[Patrick H.]

Re: Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

Define what you mean by "best."

[Ron G.]

[Mark E.]

Re: Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

You'll find a wealth of information in the scores of past threads on this topic. This resource plus talking with the vendors directly helped me understand how each system compares.

[Mike E.]

Re: Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

I am with Patrick. Is best most authentic? Longest-lasting? Quietest? Loudest? Cheapest? Once you define best, we can help best.

[Michael C.]

Re: Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

Sorry, I guess that was pretty vague. I'm restoring the car to factory original look/specs for the most part. I will be showing it and plan on driving it and enjoying it. I looked at the Gardner web site that was mentioned and that looks like it would fit the bill. I most likely will get it judged at some point but am not intending to chase every last point. Thank You

[Patrick H.]

Re: Best exhaust options for my 72 big block

Best bang for your buck? Corvette Central aluminzed system with the mufflers welded to the pipes. You get the 25% standard deduction and move on. The best deal is when they offer free shipping.
If you buy a Gardner system it's aluminized as well, and costs a lot more with the same points deduction.

If you want a correct system, then you need to go with a carbon (plain) steel system which will show rust by next week Thursday. In addition, you will have to work with Gardner to make a system that appears more correct than what they normally sell. The mufflers will still be detectable, so you might gain 2-4 points and have rusty pipes.

[Michael C.]