Could I remove my Xbrace if I install frame connectors? I want to install a nice exhaust system and I know my Xbrace will be in the way. I've read posts about shimming and all that. I'm sure in the furure when I have some time I will try that, but for now will connectors be ok or even better?

I wouldn't... X brace provides structure from side to side where sub frame connectors provide structure from front to rear... Hotchkis makes convt connectors and a cross brace which also supports both are needed. I'm waiting on both for my car as I type. The aftermarket X brace allows for more exhaust clearence, you can also shim your existing brace if you want...

Could the Xbrace be removed by 1 person? meaning, does someone need to be in the cab holding a nut or is it just a bolt that I could replace with a longer one that has a tapped nutto the body?

One person can do it. I replaced with longer bolts so as to get clearance for my headers. (Pipes dropped an inch or so after the headers were added) Hotchkis advertises frame connectors to REPLACE the X brace for exhaust systems. (Think I saw them in the newest JEGS catalog that came a few days ago) Lots of guys have removed the x brace without adding frame connectors and I don't believe they have experience any handling issues. I left mine on, just used longer bolts and shimmed with fender washers.

Sorry Dennis, I see I basically said what you did. I thought with the Hotchkis connectors, you didn't need the x brace? Maybe I mis-read the ad.

One person can do it. I replaced with longer bolts so as to get clearance for my headers. Hotchkis advertises frame connectors to REPLACE the X brace for exhaust systems. (Think I saw them in the newest JEGS catalog that came a few days ago) Lots of guys have removed the x brace without adding frame connectors and I don't believe they have experience any handling issues. I left mine on, just used longer bolts and shimmed with fender washers.

I don't usually point out things like this and maybe summit is mis-quoting Hotchkis but they do not offer sub frame braces to replace the x brace. They do make a replacement x brace as I already stated.

If the x brace wasn't needed the factory wouldn't have included it. I know cars without the x brace and they have problem with more stress cracking than normal. I don't think it's really a handling device or issue, it's a structure of the vehicle device. Heavier rockers than a coupe and the tunnel makes a nice hinge in the center of the floor without the roof to complete the structure.

I couldn't find a thread where anyone recomends removing the x brace, did I miss something? I would imagine a full tubing frame and roll cage car might not need the x brace but would never recomend it isn't needed to someone...

Thanks, So the bolts just screw into the body? No nut to hold on the other side? Anyone ever do the the Flowmaster #17129 kit with Hedman long tubes. How much did you shim?

You are absolutely right Dennis. I just re-read the ad in JEGS. The x brace is sold seperately...."to allow for larger exhaust systems". Sorry if I caused any confusion, I'll go back to my corner and munch on a chili dog. :)

Thanks, So the bolts just screw into the body? No nut to hold on the other side? Anyone ever do the the Flowmaster #17129 kit with Hedman long tubes. How much did you shim?

I'm not familiar with that kit but here is the thing, if the kit is designed for a coupe the exhaust is not routed up into the tunnel and is designed to use some of the space the x brace takes. You might be able to modify it but I wouldn't. My advice is find a muffler shop to build your custom exhaust and fit it to your car. I think it can even be done here in the bay area for the almost $500 that kit costs...

I'm not familiar with that kit but here is the thing, if the kit is designed for a coupe the exhaust is not routed up into the tunnel and is designed to use some of the space the x brace takes. You might be able to modify it but I wouldn't. My advice is find a muffler shop to build your custom exhaust and fit it to your car. I think it can even be done here in the bay area for the almost $500 that kit costs...

The kit cost $271 from Jegs, that why I'm asking. I'm sure someone did it.... Anyone?

I bought the Jeg's branded 2.5" exhaust kit from Jegs and was able to install it with a little modification where I just need to shim the front of the X-brace down a little. Of course, I haven't yet, but need to soon.

RobR, I am considering the 2.5" Jeg's custom fit exhaust kit 555-30550. Where do the tail pipes exit, in back of car, or on sides behind rear wheels? I called them and got conflicting info. Also, did you get the kit with or without (30540) their muffler?

I bought the Jeg's branded 2.5" exhaust kit from Jegs and was able to install it with a little modification where I just need to shim the front of the X-brace down a little. Of course, I haven't yet, but need to soon.
Do you have headers? I have Hooker super comps. They hang a little low and I'm not sure how the fit would be.

I have the Hedman shorty headers because I did not want them banging off of the ground. I think that is the kit that I ordered. It is setup with 45 degree turn downs out the rear corners by the rear spring hangers. With my Hedman headers, I cut those off to use them to go from the collectors, turn 45, then back. I then bought the only 45's I could find and added them to the back. They are ugly, but hidden.

I have no idea, but I'm about to find out..
My research shows headers, tranny, motor mounts, engine size all contribute to where the exhaust ride..

I have Competition Engineering frame connectors.
My Doug Thorley TRi-Y Headers arrived from Jegs today.
My Flowmaster 17129 should be here tomorrow.
I plan on fitting, shimming or fabricating my X-Brace into place.
I'll let you know how mine fit this weekend.

The X-Brace has 6 bolts and the nuts are part of the 3 convertible under-floor braces.

Go for it..
Take a chance..

Let me know. Post some pictures when your done. Are your hedders long tubes?

I have Comp Eng subframes that were modified to fit my vert and recently installed the Hotchkiss X brace. I purchased the X from Hotchkiss for $169.

I have Comp Eng subframes that were modified to fit my vert and recently installed the Hotchkiss X brace. I purchased the X from Hotchkiss for $169.
How low does the brace hang? Pics, pics...

I'll post pics on Monday.