I have done a search and haven't really found any specific answers so, here goes...
I am looking at replacing my complete exhaust system, however, I'm not sure which way to turn.
Perhaps someone could help/advise me.

As a bit of background, I'm planning on keeping my 305 TBI engine and changing the heads and cams to achieve @300+ hp at a later stage.

I'm looking at the following:
A ceramic coated header, manufactured by either Edelbrock or Hooker.
However, what Collector diameter should I go for 2.5" or 3" ?

A Cat-back exhaust system, manufactured by either Edelbrock, Flowmaster or Hooker.
However, what diameter should I go for a complete 3" system or a 3" to 2.5" system ?

Would it be best to get a complete system by the same manufacturer ?

I'd appreciate any help and advice here.
Thanks

 

I think that 2.5 will be pleanty big enough, as for witch brand to get, I think that they are all good. It is personal preference.

 

Edelbrock is what we have, both headers and exhaust. I would recommend the same manufacturer for both though. Should make things easier.

 

Go with a 3" Catback system, will help that TBI put out a few extra HP.

 

Thanks for the replies.
I was thinking about going for a complete 3" system BUT I've heard that it might actually hurt my performance unless the motor was turboed or supercharged.
I'm planning on staying TBI N/A. I'll probably end up with a heads and cams package (World Products, Vortec, ...) new intake manifold and a Holley 670cfm 2-BBL GM Truck TBI unit.

So far I've narrowed it down to the following:
1. Edelbrock Tubular Exhaust Systems with Ti-Tech Ceramic Coating (EDL-68753) matched to Edelbrock RPM Series Cat-Back Exhaust Systems (EDL-5673). This will give me a complete 2.5" system.
2. Hooker Competition Headers (HOK-2460-1HKR) matched to Hooker Super Competition Cat-Back Exhaust Systems (HOK-16823HKR). This will give me a 3"->3"->2.5" system.
3. Hooker Super Competition Headers (HOK-2210-1HKR) matched to Flowmaster American Thunder Exhaust Systems (FLO-17228). This will give me a complete 3" system.
4. MAC Performance Single Catalytic Car Header System (TF8690) matched to a Direct Fit Cat Back System w/3.5" Stainless Tips (TKC691). est.+37hp

So what do you think?

 

That's pretty much what we have and it is awesome. It sounds just slightly louder than stock at idle, but it opens up in the higher RPMs. We like it because we like sleepers.

 

sleeper cars are the best....

 

Looks like you guys have got me sussed...that's exactly what I'm up to![8D]

 

That's why the only thing that has changed cosmetically on the exterior of the car, is it sits a little lower now with the springs [sm=badbadbad.gif] .

 

I was taken by the cosmetic looks of the Camaro and the fact that it had T-tops...so no need to change anything on the exterior.
Well, may be the wheels and tires...not sure at the moment, but likely to be the last thing I do.
Here's what I've got and putting on: KYB AGX adjustable shocks with Eibach Sportline Springs; Edelbrock Tower brace; Competition Engineering bolt-on SFCs; J&M camber plates, adjustable control arms and panhard rod; Powertrax LSD; Gripforce Drilled/Slotted Nickel plated rotors and street performance pads; S/S brake hoses.
Oh yea and a RAM Air Box CAI system.
Next is a complete a complete exhaust system.
Then I'm going to start looking at Engine and Transmission upgrades.