Going to fab up the exhaust system for my RPU. I have the lakes headers done and will be running the pipes off of the headers and through the frame to an undercar exhaust system through a pair of Porters out to the back. I'd like to mount the exhaust so that it does not shake around all over the place and hit things as it will be in some tight confines including where it p***es through the frame. I had planned to mount it using some exhaust grommets like pictured. I also have a bunch of V Band clamps to use for the required joints. I want to have the whole works ceramic coated later on. The question is, will I need to install a pair those braided flexible exhaust sections ? And if so, where in the system will they work best ?
IMO pictured components 2 & 3 look awfully busy (hi-tech) for your RPU, but you may feel differently. I would keep it streamlined with a minimum number of coupling flanges for easy removal sake. Then, if you're having a problem with vibration, chafing, etc. take the necessary steps to correct. Rubber insulated hangers have always worked for me and there's a number of different kinds available.
Not sure on the high tech side of things however they will all be tucked up out of sight basically. Just wondering on the flexible braided things as I see some guys use them and some don't. I want the exhaust mounted fairly rigidly so maybe I need them for some flex and movement ?
Exhaust only shakes when the motor shakes. Make your mounts snug and you should be OK. My headers are 1/4 inch away from my steering box and they do not rattle.
If you install the flex pipe it would need to be between the pipe from the engine and the first pipe hanger.
Flex pipes are for transverse mounted engines that torque front to back...(import cars mostly)--- 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s American made cars....no flex connectors necessary... on engined with rear wheel drive the manifold pipes twists when the engine torques over. Transverse engines needed a place for the pipe to flex. Personally I think they look stupid on rear wheel drive cars and are added just for show (look how much I spent on my exhaust system)
Thanks fellas, the verdict is in, no flex connectors. And I'll try to make the exhaust clean and functional. I do like the V band clamps they are a nice simple design and should work well. I think the Y Block will sound very nice with the Porters.
If your exhaust is going to run at a right angle to the engine to get back through the frame that would be the same as a transverse mounted engine.
You might want to look under many late model GM Full Size SUV's - V8, rear wheel drive, and those flex pipes in the exhaust are quite common.
I believe Tommy said through the 80's,,,Tommy is just a few days older than older than methuselah and has run a muffler shop almost that long. HRP
Excellent point Danny. When it comes to traditional exhaust I doubt there isn't anyone on the HAMB that can hold a candle to Tommy's experience.
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