I know this is subjective but I would really like to hear everyones opinion. I've read everything that I could find (search function) and from what I've read so far, I'm still undecided, LOL! Maybe you guys can help. I'm replacing the exhaust on my 69Z and I would like to stay stock with the transverse muffler but not at the cost of perfomance or musclecar sound. I'm thinking from what I've read chambered might be to loud, never actually heard the system though. Alot of people seem to think the Gardner systems are the best, although pricey. All opinions and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

I went through the same dilemma a couple of years ago. I bit the bullet and ordered a Gardner deep tone system. Not only does it look and sound good, but everything fit perfectly! As far as performance goes, I didn't notice much of a difference, but my Z still has manifolds.

When I bought my Z/28 last August, it had chambered exhaust on it wth original manifolds. It was too loud for me.
I ordered and installed a Gardner exhaust system. It looks great and sounds good. It is pretty quiet compared to Flowmaster or others.

I am using the transverse muffler system from Flowmaster. It fits good, and sounds good. It does not have the mind numbing sound of a traditional Flomaster setup.

I can listen to the radio at a reasonable level and carry on a converstaion running 3500 RPM's on the freeway.

But it will bark when you put your foot in it.

Around $250.

Gardner is hard to beat. Price is alittle on the high side but, the fit and sound is great.

I have Ricks performance Chambered pipe setup with 1-3/4" Hooker headers. Cost was about $450 or so. It is loud but not crazy IMHO. At cruise it is fairly quiet. Taking off or WOT is louder but I like it. I would go with the deep tone repro if you are concerned with the noise. Keep in mind that the Deep Tone is better for performance and still quieter than Chambered! smile.gif

-Mark.

I have Ricks' 2 1/4" factory reproduction system for my '68Z. It is manufactured by IMCO and bolts up using all of the correct hanger locations, etc. I added an H pipe and 1 5/8" Hooker Super Comps. The system sounds great and has a very distinctive sound. This is one area that I thought I would upgrade later, but I have been pleasantly surprised by this combination. The fit/fitment of the exhaust system matches the A.I.M. to a tee. I have a sound clip and pictures I can e-mail you if you’d like.

Steve

Thanks for the replys everyone. I'm leaning toward Gardners' complete transverse system with all the brackets clamps ect. Just choking on the price. From all that I hear their systems are as good as it gets but is it really that much better than the other systems to justify the price. How many of you guys are running this system and was it worth the price. BTW, I'm running exhaust manifolds.

If you can afford the price of the Gardner system, do it. It fits great, looks perfect and sounds pretty good. One note, when fitting everything together, be sure to apply the silicone on the joints BEFORE you install the clamps. (don't ask).

By the way, I noticed that you are in PCB. I spend quite a few vacations there every year. Was just there two weekends ago.