Great info guys. Thanks. I think I am going to try a 2 1/4 system, and maybe a 2 into 2 muffler, that way, I can get the x pipe at the same time. I think that I'll just start with the setup I have, and then maybe look at some polishing and maybe change the valves at a later time, but I think from all of your advice, I am on the right track. I did see that article from the 50's. I actually found the Hot Rod magazine on ebay and bought it, so I have a hard cover version. Pretty cool.
