Introduction and Exhaust Question

[Jim Wulf]

Hi All,
I hope this question is ok here. I am putting my exhaust back together now and I am curious about how it is supposed to leave the manifold. The thing I do not know is I am reading about metal shields and mine did not have them. Are they needed? If so how is the layering done correctly, gasket, metal, gasket or no gaskets . Anyone want to school me on how to do it correctly. Thanks for any help!

The factory installation included the tin heat shields only. Here's a good past thread on the subject:

http://www.vintagethunderbirdclub.net/p ... php?t=3701

[RedBird64]

The stamped tin gaskets make for a very good seal when everything is clean.
I learned the hard way that using the thick, multi-layer gaskets gives you a good short time seal but will eventually cause the manifold to break becasue they restrict movement. I went through several manifolds before my mechanic buddy told me what I was doing wrong (he worked on FT's in dump trucks).
Since then I have not had a manifold failure.

Scott

[caseyc]

Jim thank you much for the link to all the great information on the heat shields and Scott thank you for your input too I have a much better idea now of what I'm going to do

[FlyAngry]

As long as were talking about exhaust...

I recently replaced my rusting mufflers with ones from a Thunderbird supplier with the tips already attached. Mufflers fit wonderfully, but the tips do a full 90 degree turn and hang down like Gonzo's nose from the Muppets. I'm guessing I need to trim them down. What is the correct length of the tips? Should the exhaust be pointed straight down or angled?

There's nothing in my version of the Original Factory Specifications. I think I have a general idea from Jim Wulf's website, but would appreciate any other details or suggestions. I'd like to be as factory correct as possible.

Thanks,
JP

[Jim Wulf]

As long as were talking about exhaust...

I recently replaced my rusting mufflers with ones from a Thunderbird supplier with the tips already attached. Mufflers fit wonderfully, but the tips do a full 90 degree turn and hang down like Gonzo's nose from the Muppets. I'm guessing I need to trim them down. What is the correct length of the tips? Should the exhaust be pointed straight down or angled?

76479936-1514-4CE7-B84B-36AF362A88ED.png

There's nothing in my version of the Original Factory Specifications. I think I have a general idea from Jim Wulf's website, but would appreciate any other details or suggestions. I'd like to be as factory correct as possible.

Thanks,
JP

Yes, they need to be trimmed off. Cut them so the end of the tip is even with the bottom of the muffler, and in the same plane.