I'm thinking about running the exhaust out the side of my '84 Z28, probably at a 60 to 90 degree angle. I'm wondering if this would cause any problems with the fiberglass trim (melting, softening etc). The car has a 350 in it and the exhaust system will have catalytic converters and mufflers. I'm planning on leaving some space between the body and the exhaust pipes. Is there a rule of thumb how much you need to leave? Couldn't find anything on this, but I apologize if it has already been covered.

 

I'm planning on doing the same thing with my 92 RS, same engine, but possibly no cats and I'm thinking of maybe using slip in glass packs

 

I remember years ago there were 2 local owners that had ex players race cars. Both around '86's, one a Trans Am and the other a Z28, both 5 speed cars. Both had side exhausts, they sounded really good too. The TA owner dropped a 350 into his, the interior was a bit hacked up from where a rollbar had been, but it was still a nice car. Neither ever had bodykit issues, and the exhaust hugged fairly tight so as to not hang down.