Hey Guys,
Does anyone know the stock exhaust configuration for a 65 SS with a 283? Was it single or dual exhaust, and where did it exit?

Thanks in advance,
Mat

The 195hp version used a single exhaust, exited at the rear bumper with the tailpipe pointing down and out.

The 220hp version used a dual exhaust system with the tailpipes exiting at the rear bumper with the tailpipes pointing down and out.

Thanks Rich! I have the 195hp 2bbl (all stock) and I want to install some headers and dual exhaust. Any recommendations before I do so? Did the 220hp 283 have any other differences besides the carb, maybe a beefier cam?

Thanks,
Mat

The difference between the 195 and 220 versions was that the 220 had a four bbl carb and dual exhaust, that's it.

With a 283, you'll want to get headers with the smallest tubes you can find. Probably the smallest you'll be able to find will have 1-5/8 inch primary tubes. Anything bigger will be a waste of money and probably make the car run worse than with the manifolds. If you are keeping the rest of the engine all stock, you might want to up the carb jetting after you install the headers. If you are going to upgrade the intake side of things too with a 4-bbl, keep it fairly small since 283 cubes doesn't take much to feed it. A 500-550cfm carb would be fine for just normal driving around, certainly nothing bigger than 600 cfm.

Thanks again Rich...you're the man!

:beers:,
Mat

There might be some headers out there with 1-1/2 inch tubes, shop around a bit to see what's available. It might cost more, but buy a name brand and seriously consider paying extra for ceramic coated headers. They will last a whole lot longer and will continue to look great for years to come with just a little maintenence.