[importsmasher]

Ok so this might be a dumb question, but i couldn't find the answer anywhere....My son has a 69 Firebird we're working on putting together (350/4 speed), and we're getting to the exhaust system.
I know these originally had the center dump driver side exhaust manifold, and the curved Pitman arm to clear it. I have the center dump manifold, but his car has a straight Pitman arm on it. Not looking to replace all the steering linkage right now, and I know finding a curved Pitman arm for manual steering can be difficult. I put a rear dump manifold on the driver side, and I don't see any reason I couldn't just use that. It exits behind the steering linkage, so there's no interference issues.. I can't see anything preventing me from going this route.

Am I missing something? Is there a reason Pontiac used the center dump manifold on the driver side?

I'd just hate to pay for an exhaust system and find out later that something won't fit.

Thanks,
Importsmasher

[north]

Logically the reason for the driver side center dump on all 60's Pontiacs (except the A body-GTO-LeMans where the cross member location prevented it) was to keep heat away from the starter. So, If you can put an Abody rear dump manifold and nothing (clutch linkage etc) is in the way go for it. Yes it will put heat into the starter but no worse than every A body ever built.

[importsmasher]

Originally Posted by north

Logically the reason for the driver side center dump on all 60's Pontiacs (except the A body-GTO-LeMans where the cross member location prevented it) was to keep heat away from the starter. So, If you can put an Abody rear dump manifold and nothing (clutch linkage etc) is in the way go for it. Yes it will put heat into the starter but no worse than every A body ever built.

Interesting. I wasn't aware that that was the reason for the center dump. Thanks!

Importsmasher