did lots of reading but still.....

[Ken B.]

gang I have read and read and still have not been able to come to a clear outcome so any advice/opinions would be welcomed.

I have a 71 240 (no smog controls required) with a 280 motor from a 78Z.

I was looking into a header/exhaust set up. I don't want to sound like (as you say) "the ricers" and I don't want to sound obnoxious but I certainly do want to sound better, deeper/throatier than stock. I am not installing them myself - having a shop do it.

First I was thinking 3 into 2 with twice pipes but many seem to have had a headache with them. Then I was thinking 6 into 1 but am reading the dynomax muffler isn't a good fit under the car.

I also like the look of the Ansa (over/under) tips but that wont work with a 2.5 exhaust.

Mine is a weekend good weather toy, not a daily driver.

so....

any thoughts on header, exhaust size, resonator, muffer and tips for my situation - please share.

thanks!

[ChrisZ]

What is the headache with twice pipes, i have no headache.

I made my own system, based on the Clifford system and it sounds mean, got to post a video for you guys.

I still need to figure out how the tips have to look, but i'm leaning against the Ansa look, the tips will also affect how it sounds.

Chris

[d240zx2]

Ditto 2 Fast 2 Z .

My twice pipes are just like his except I have no rear resonators. Quiet when not on the throttle, angry at WOT. Quite sweet, actually.

Frank

[Curtis240Z]

Acceptable sound levels/tone is such a subjective thing. Is there a local Z Club nearby so you can hear what others have done? I have a Clifford header with a 2.5" pipe back to a Flowmaster Delta 50 muffler in the rear, no resonators.

[Arne]

Random thoughts here.

The reason you haven't been able to identify a clear outcome is because there is no clear outcome. We all have different cars, equipment, wants and needs. What is right for me may not float your boat. So listen to our advice, yes. But do whatever tickles your fancy.

Have you picked a local exhaust shop to do the work yet? If so, talk to them about your choices and get their opinions, too. Consider showing them the pictures of the available systems, and then discuss having them build a system to your specs. "I want it like this one, but in this size and with such-and-such brand muffler."

The 6-into-1 will (I'm told) have better low end than a 3-into-2. [RANT]I hate that term, it's a 6-into-2, or two 3-into-1s, but not 3-into-2. Grrr.[/RANT]

I don't think you need to go to 2.5" with what you have, you might want to consider 2.25" instead.

If you do decide on 2.25", Dynomax makes a round muffler in that size that fits up in there beautifully. Part #17-741.

[beandip]

I am running a 3 into two header from MSA and find it a good setup for me. I have a 280ZX engine in my '73z . I have 2 1/2'' piping and I think that 2 1/4'' would be better. I have one oval Dynomax super turbo muffler. Center inlet and off set out let. It tucks up in the space provided well and is not seen from the rear. The sound is deep and not too loud for me but would be better if I had the 2 1/4'' piping I think . the smaller pipe will also give better low end torque.

Since I am not driving a race orientated Z this works well for me. The system offered at MSA is a mandrel bent systime and I like mine and have no fault with it. I just prefer the Dynomax sound , not as raspy.

Gary

[Ken B.]

Thanks for all the input everyone, I think I'm going to have the system installed at Hesco, down in Alabama before I bring her home, the leather seating is done and the bodywork almost complete and then Hesco gets it for new struts and springs as well as a few other minor items. I want to talk to them about the exhaust install. I would prefer lower end power so perhaps Arne is right. I did listen to a similar set up to mine with headers and glass packs - too much for me. And I definetley don't want raspy You guys seem to indicate Dynomax has the size and sound to avoid that.

I'll post results once she's back. Thanks again!

Edited May 4, 2009 by Ken B.

[Ken B.]

well, made my choice today, at least part of it, I ordered the coated "6 into 1" header from MSA, I'm going to let the shop do the piping and still thinking on the muffler. If I go 2.25 I'll probably go with your suggestion Arne.

Can someone fill me in a little on a resonator vs a muffler and why one is chosen over the other or should both be used and why?

PS - I asked MSA about a discount for being a member here and was told they only give discounts to "like real clubs". Just an FYI.

[John Coffey]

Resonators are used in conjunction with a muffler.

[Zedyone_kenobi]

I am running 2.5" pipes from my MSA 6 into 2 into 1 2.5" header to my 12" resonator, then I neck down to 2" to my ANSA dual tip. Do not think that you need 2.5" all the way back on a 2.4L engine. The further back you get the smaller pipe you need. I love the way my car sounds and drives now.

http://videos.streetfire.net/video/1971-240Z-with-vintage_205421.htm

Edited May 5, 2009 by Zedyone_kenobi

[Ken B.]

I am running 2.5" pipes from my MSA 6 into 2 into 1 2.5" header to my 12" resonator, then I neck down to 2" to my ANSA dual tip. Do not think that you need 2.5" all the way back on a 2.4L engine. The further back you get the smaller pipe you need. I love the way my car sounds and drives now.

http://videos.streetfire.net/video/1971-240Z-with-vintage_205421.htm

Mines a 2.8L, not sure that makes a BIG difference. I like the over under ansa tips a lot - not sure if there are any left though.

Is your sound from the muffler or a comboe from the muffler and tips?

Good sound btw!

[adamr]

FWIW, I loved the sound and look of the Ansa exhaust which I had on my 76 280z. However, on long cruises down the highway, it was somewhat exhausting, pardon the pun. When I had my foot on it around town, I loved it. Something to consider...

See if you can take a ride in something similar to what you want. See what it's like when cruising at 2500 to 4000 RPMS. This could influence your decision.

Best of luck!

-Adamr