header/exhaust 1976 280z question

[Dancerbeth72]

Hello,

I am brand new to Z-ownership and am needing to do some work on the exhaust system of my 76 280z. I read most of the posts in this forum and am now more confused than when I started.

Most of the time the Z will be my daily driver and my driving style is not very spirited. I am wanting to make sure my mods do not negatively affect mpg. Also I do not need Daisy to be terribly loud.

What are the major differences between the 6 to 1 headers and the 3 to 2 headers from MSA? I think I read somewhere that the 3 to 2s were better for lower-end driving and read somewhere else that there was no proof of that.

Any input or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Beth

[Pop's Z]

Hi Beth, For a stock motor you will gain very little with a header. The stock exhaust manifold flows well, is quieter, and runs less hot. You can purchase an exhaust system from MSA or just take the car to your local muffler shop. Try to use a shop that caters to the hot rod crowd and you'll get what you want. As far as the differences between 3-2 and 6-1 there are very knowlegable people on here that can give you that info. It might take a few days so be patient.

Cheers, Mike

[d240zx2]

If your car is to be a daily driver with no pretense of being a performance platform, stick with the stock exhaust system. Like Pop's Z said, you'll gain very little by going to either 6-1 or 6-2 headers and it'll cost you a small bundle.

[Dancerbeth72]

No pretense whatsoever. Compared to the Geo Metro I was driving, the Z is already a performance vehicle.

I do need to do something about her exhaust though because it appears to be off a later model and the flange shape does not match the manifold. The muffler is also in bad shape. I am getting exhaust smell in the cabin which could be from the mismatch, the muffler, or the really leaky rear hatch seal.

Beth

[Curtis240Z]

Well if the exhause manifold is the wrong shape (square vs. round) then cost would probably drive the decision since you are not racing it. So if you can find a good used OEM manifold or a proper header (equal length runners) plus a 2.25" exhaust pipe and quality muffler you should be set. MSA's 6 to 1 header is better than their 3 to2 header because the 3 to 2 is not equal length.

Edited February 28, 2010 by Curtis240Z

[d240zx2]

Go with the least expensive repair option first. Mufflers/tailpipes are relatively cheap, exhaust manifolds and the changing of them are not. Hatch seals are relatively cheap and the labor is half an hour in your own garage.

[matria]

Hi Beth,

You mentioned that you were getting an exhust smell in your car. Have you gone through your car and closed off all leaks? Here is one thread on how to check but there are many others.

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34205

Enjoy the ride,

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