Interesting question. I just went through this on my 76 as I am converting it to duals now. I have the double hump cross member so I am good to go. Given how the aftermarket kit fit my GTO, I decided to have a local shop custom build my exhaust. You are correct that a good pipe bender is hit or miss and fortunately the guy doing mine did my GTO exhaust after I couldn't stand the fit. I am confident he will make this fit like a glove and for less than I could buy an aftermarket kit
One question. I understand you like the flow characteristics of a mandrel bent exhaust however if you have the stock 77 engine, it is likely that you will not notice a difference in performance between the two. Either one will flow better than the factory exhaust.
Two other potential challenges.
1) Do you have the double hump cross member? If not , a stock dual exhaust from a 73-4 will have clearance issues on the drivers side.
2) From a pipe builder, you will likely have issues with them not installing cats to replace the one that is on the car as there are pretty stiff penalties if they remove the cat and do not reinstall.
You probably already know this however thought I would thow that info out there in case you are unaware.
Good luck with the project
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