Originally Posted by Black_Zephyr

I completely agree. I have a lot of respect for my local mechanics, some have been in business for 25+ years, some are just starting out. I do not have the time, space, nor facilities to do any "major" work on my cars. I live in an apartment and have to park on the street.

I find some people don't realise the expense of the cost of the house + garage, tools, time and costly mistakes while learning on their own.

I admit, some people have thousands to throw at various projects, others are happily retired with tonnes of time on their hands. Kudos to you folks. But young guys like me, trying to keep the classic car genre alive, have a hard time of it. The economy isn't good at all, most of the older "classic car junky" mechanics have retired or are passing away, and the cost of becoming a mechanic these days is prohibitive. Cars also are not built to last as long these days, IN MY OPINION.

You get what you pay for, regardless of direction. I'd rather put the money in the hands of a schooled, licensed and trained professional who I can work with and learn my car, without making very costly mistakes. I believe I've picked a good, solid car and engine to start with.

Well, enough of that rant! Anyways, my engine swap is scheduled for June, so I will be keeping you updated!

One funny thing... that last 2 foot or so part of the exhaust that looks like a snake? I found one for $178.56 + shipping. I swear, I will NEVER pay that much for a 2 foot hunk of metal that's mostly hollow! I'm in the works to find someone who can bend pipe to fit or find a cheaper source. I am hoping to go headers back in aluminium. Thoughts on that? Are there any bolt on kits for such?

To FricFrac: Perhaps in the land of totem poles and unemployment. Over here, I called 6 different mechanics and all stated the same price or more. Too many boys walking into their shop every few days, throwing 20, 30 or 40 grand down on their lifted diesel Ford F350s. Oil Patch money. Too much money, and well. What middle class right?

Originally Posted by FricFrac

If you can find someone that will mandrel bend a piece of 3" stainless for over the drive shaft let me know how much it costs....

Originally Posted by NismoPick

Build your own yo! I got my downpipe bend on ee-baiye.

3" 409 SS 180 Degree Mandrel Bend Stainless Steel | eBay

3" 409 SS 90 Degree Mandrel Bend Stainless Steel | eBay

Exhaust U-Bend 409ss Mandrel Bent for Turbos Intercoolers Air | eBay