Tracking down '72-'74 exhaust conversion parts.

[yondermtn]

I've always felt that my exhaust is noisy. The parts all seem to be in decent shape but there are some missing parts(exchanger to flapper tube, fan shroud flaps/gaskets, and a bracket). I have an aftermarket muffler and no crossover pipe.
I have acquired a second set of 75-78 exchangers and j-pipes which are in similar condition to what I have now.

I am thinking that in the long run I might be best off converting to the '72-74 style.

How difficult is it to find the parts for the conversion? I think I have a good list of all the parts needed, but I am having trouble finding sources for them and before I start buying the pieces that I have found I thought I'd ask for advice on my plan to convert and which conversion pieces are the most difficult to find.

Thanks!

[poptop tom]

I had a hell of a time finding everything a few years back. It won't happen overnight!

German Supply for this. The Bus Co for that. Busted Bus for the other. And samba (I mean IAC) classifieds "want" ads.

I would start buying the pieces you've found. They will all be in your possession in a matter of time.

[yondermtn]

I think I will probably just start buying. I'm not desperate to swap as what I have does work.
The exchangers seem fairly easy to come across.

What is the most elusive part I should be on the lookout for?

[tristessa]

Off the top of my head --
Exchangers
Lower bottom & forward cylinder tins
alternator bracket
both exchanger-to-heater-valve pipes
passenger side pipe to the booster fan

I've got all the pieces because I was running that setup in my '75, plus I know I've got "extra" exchangere (L and R), lower-bottom tins and alternator bracket. I might have "extra" of the other pieces but I'll have to dig deeper in the garage to make sure.

It's just taking up space...

[yondermtn]

Perfect! When you get a chance to look through your stuff let me know what you have and I'll gladly take it off your hands.

[germansupplyscott]

What is the most elusive part I should be on the lookout for?

that's easy, it's the hot air pipe on the right side. the one for the booster fan that pokes up through the top engine cover plate. second-most difficult is the left bottom tin that hides the pushrod tubes. we have bits and pieces always, they come and go fast. we make the two brackets that you need.

[chachi]

...

[Jivermo]

Colin and I just rebuilt my '78 exhaust system. Brazed up as couple of holes, squared up the flange surfaces with a sander and grinder, new gaskets and bolts, copper nuts, red RTV, and the system is quite workable. Not good as new, but darn close functionally. I expect to get a number of years out of this rebuild. And, it is stock.

[Amskeptic]

Colin and I just rebuilt my '78 exhaust system. Brazed up as couple of holes, squared up the flange surfaces with a sander and grinder, new gaskets and bolts, copper nuts, red RTV, and the system is quite workable. Not good as new, but darn close functionally. I expect to get a number of years out of this rebuild. And, it is stock.

Next visit, we will paint the whole thing for longevity's sake. I am going to repaint the BobD's next time I find myself in Texas with a few days to spare and a few gallons of extra blood in my veins that need to be removed one mosquito at a time.
Colin