I don't see a factory exhaust hanger on either side, which is weird.
Those straps on there now are clearly aftermarket add on.
Sadly muffler shops just ran a lag bolt through the body.
Same was done to my car.
Only thing I'll add is, I would recommend getting the title situation cleared before starting any work. Would be a shame to dump a bunch of money, and then find out you have issues getting it registered and tagged to drive.
You are 100% correct, didn't mean to be argumentative.
This mod is definitely not for the purist.
My car is a POS that I like to drive, so anything that makes it easier, I do it.
I got that, there are tons of them available. Simple search of Amazon gives you plenty of options. The form is standardized, easy to find a replacement if needed. If really concerned, spend $75 and buy 4 or 5 and you're set for life.
https://a.co/d/01zVhKmE
Curious where you found this info? Never seen engine production numbers.
"Of those, just 585 were equipped with this drivetrain combination (318cid/230hp V8 / 727 TorqueFlite automatic"
Good point, I never did get around to verifying TDC with the mark on the balancer.
Just started at what showed 36 and reduced it until pinging went away, and another 2 deg for margin.
So I guess it's possible the starting point was off.