Mod: Chrome Plated Stainless Steel Exhaust Tips
Purchased from: West Coast Corvette
Cost: $179.00 / pair
time to install: 30 min
Tools needed: Drill, 1/8 Bit, Phillips screwdriver, small wood block (1"x2" , 5+ inches in length), Hammer, floor jack - Flat Black High Heat Paint

Lets face it, in stock form, the exhaust pipes on the C5 look extremely bland...hell, even Honda's have chrome exhaust tips! Sure, they are going to add some weight to your sleek C5, but the Vette is not only designed for speed. It also was designed to turn heads by being drop dead gorgeous! Short of replacing both mufflers with sportier versions, which come with beautifully shiny pipes preinstalled, chrome tips add a finishing touch to the rear of the C5.

After looking at several tip options, ranging in price from $49 to $250+, we chose the Chrome Plated SS Exhaust Tips part #17181C distributed by West Coast Corvette for $179/set. Included in the package are 4 extremely stout, oval, slash cut, stainless steel tips which have been flawlessly Triple Chrome plated. Each tip has welded to its inside four spring steel mounting clips that are designed to secure them firmly onto the existing exhaust. Although these claim to be substantial enough for a secure mount, we have seen many Corvettes with only 2 or 3 tips running around. This leads us to believe, that during spirited driving, or over uneven pavement, these mounts many not be as secure as claimed. That is why 8 stainless steel mounting screws are also included in the package.

Installation is extremely simple and straight forward:

1. Park vehicle on a stable, flat, level surface.
2. With the mouting holes facing downwards, align the Chrome tip over the existing tip. Using a hammer and the block of wood inserted through the new tip (on top of one clip at a time), tap the 4 mounting clips into place over the existing tip. Seat the clips flush with the existing tip. Repeat for remaining tips.
3. Visually align all the tips and adjust as needed until they are all straight and aligned. It is suggested that the tips be slanted slightly upward to prevent water from collecting in the tips during wet conditions.
4. After the tips are properly aligned, Jack the rear of the vechicle high enough to allow clearance for your drill and bit. Ensure the vehicle is properly stabilized and the wheels are blocked before getting under it.
5. Drill 1/8" pilot holes through the bottom mounting holes and the original exhaust tip. Insert the screws and tighten securely
6. Finally, mask the mouting tips from view by painting with Flat Black High heat paint through the new tip. Spray one light coat, then repeat as necessary until proper coverage and hiding is obtained.