Replace or install exhaust tip on the 1966 Chevrolet Corvette 327 V8, involving removal of the old tip (if present) and installation of the new tip onto the tailpipe.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust tip × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent for 2-inch tailpipe
• Clamp hardware (if not included with tip) × 1 — Stainless steel band clamp or bolt-on clamp

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake.
2. Place wheel chocks in front of and behind the front wheels.
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after last operation).
4. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack at the rear differential housing or frame rails.
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for the vehicle weight, positioned at the frame rails behind the rear axle.
6. Inspect the exhaust tip mounting location and tailpipe to determine attachment method (clamp-on or slip-fit).

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the exhaust tip
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the exhaust tip at the rear of the tailpipe. The 1966 Corvette typically has the exhaust tips exiting at the lower rear of the vehicle beneath the rear valance, below the bumper area on each side. Inspect the connection type between the tip and tailpipe.
2. 2

   Apply penetrating oil to fasteners
   If the existing tip is secured with a clamp, spray penetrating oil generously on all clamp bolts or band clamp hardware. Allow the penetrant to soak for 5-10 minutes. This step can be skipped if installing a tip on a new or recently cut tailpipe.
3. 3

   Remove existing exhaust tip clamp
   Using the appropriate socket or wrench, loosen and remove the clamp bolt(s) securing the exhaust tip. Most aftermarket tips use a single bolt band clamp, while factory or custom installations may use 2-bolt saddle clamps. Carefully remove the clamp hardware and set aside if reusable.
4. 4

   Remove old exhaust tip
   Twist the exhaust tip gently while pulling it straight off the tailpipe. If the tip is stuck due to carbon buildup or corrosion, apply additional penetrating oil and allow more soak time. Avoid excessive force that could bend the tailpipe. Once removed, set the old tip aside.
5. 5

   Clean tailpipe end
   Use a wire brush to clean the outside diameter of the tailpipe where the new tip will mount. Remove all carbon deposits, rust, and old gasket material. Wipe clean with a shop towel. The tailpipe should be smooth and free of debris for proper tip seating.
6. 6

   Test fit new exhaust tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe without tightening any clamps. Verify that the tip fits snugly over the tailpipe with approximately 2-3 inches of overlap. Check the alignment and ensure the tip angle matches the body contour and exits cleanly through the rear panel without contact.
7. 7

   Apply anti-seize compound
   Remove the tip temporarily and apply a thin, even coat of high-temperature anti-seize compound to the outside of the tailpipe where the tip will mount. This prevents future corrosion and makes removal easier. Avoid getting anti-seize on the clamp contact area.
8. 8

   Install and position exhaust tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe to the desired depth, ensuring at least 2 inches of overlap. Rotate the tip to achieve the desired rotational orientation (most tips have an angled or oval exit that should be positioned correctly). Verify clearance to bodywork and that the tip protrudes the correct distance from the rear panel.
9. 9

   Install and tighten clamp
   Position the clamp over the tip-to-tailpipe joint, centered on the overlap area. Thread the clamp bolt(s) by hand, then tighten gradually using a socket or wrench. Tighten the clamp firmly until the tip cannot be twisted or pulled by hand, but avoid overtightening which can deform the tailpipe or tip. No torque specification is provided for exhaust tip clamps; tighten the clamp snugly with moderate force until the tip cannot be twisted or pulled by hand, taking care not to deform the tailpipe or tip.
10. 10

    Final alignment check
    Verify the exhaust tip is securely mounted and properly aligned. Check that the tip does not contact any bodywork, bumper components, or underbody structure. The tip should be centered in the body cutout with even clearance all around. Make any final rotational adjustments before the clamp fully seats.

Reassembly

1. Lower the vehicle carefully from jack stands using the floor jack.
2. Remove jack stands and wheel chocks.
3. Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks at the tip-to-tailpipe joint.
4. Visually inspect the tip position from behind the vehicle to confirm proper alignment and appearance.

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for any exhaust leaks at the tip connection. There should be no hissing or ticking sounds.
• Feel around the clamp joint (with engine running but exhaust cool enough to approach) for escaping exhaust gases.
• Visually confirm the exhaust tip is securely mounted and does not move when gently pressed by hand.
• Check that the tip maintains proper clearance to all bodywork during engine operation (exhaust movement under load).
• Take a short test drive and re-check tip security and alignment after the exhaust system reaches operating temperature.

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