Exhaust for stock 272 Y-Block....what to get?

[Metal Ghost]

Hey there everyone. I posted this in the Ford community, but I wanted to get the question out to the big board as well.

Wanted to get some input on what maybe I should get in the way of new exhaust parts. Maybe even some of you are running some of the parts I plan on choosing between. I'm looking at buying new headers and mufflers from Red's. I'm running a pretty stock 272. I'm looking at moving from my current crossover set-up to a dual exhaust.

For headers, I have the choice between these or these. First, is the dual tube overkill given a stock engine? If so, do I go for the 1 3/4 or 2" monotube (why not 2'', right? I know bigger isn't always better, but 2'' seems fairly modest) Finally, again given the fact that it's a stock enging, is the metallic-ceramic coating really overkill? I mean we're basically talking the same price for the coating as the headers themselves, but truth be told I am keen to lower the temp a bit under the hood (not overheating now, but at stops I see the gauge rise a bit).

As for the mufflers, I'm trying to decide between the Porters and Smitty's. I've been told that the Porters have a bit of a deeper sound and are constructed with thicker steel, but they're also twice (almost 3 times) the price. Anyone running these....are they worth it?

Thanks for the insight guys! I want to do this right, but I'm looking at about a $400 differential between the lowest priced options and the highest, and I'm not keen to throw money away that I kind of don't have!

[thunderbirdesq]

Buy the best parts you can afford. You'll notice little performance difference with a stock engine.

[Ole don]

With a stock engine, the wide top factory dual exhaust manifolds are very good. The extra cost for headers can be used better. Waldron Exhaust can make you a stock, or like mine, a 2 1/4 inch dual set up that has mandrel bends and follows the route of the stock exhaust. Dont get the big exhaust unless you can do some minor welding at home. The product is top level stuff, very good value.

[57Custom300]

I agree with Don on this. Stock 57 manifolds are the biggest bang for the buck. Even though they look cool, that second set actually tested worse than stock manifolds.

[Metal Ghost]

Originally Posted by 57Custom300

I agree with Don on this. Stock 57 manifolds are the biggest bang for the buck. Even though they look cool, that second set actually tested worse than stock manifolds.

Who tested? I'd honestly be interested in seeing that. So Waldron can fab 'stock' manifolds? I went to their site and didn't see anything, but if I call that's something they do?

[56don]

Y blocks sound good with glasspacks and duals. I also agree that with a stock 272 all you really need is the stock dual exhausts.