Side Pipe Cutouts

[Maximus1]

Hi there!

I recently bought an A&C kit, and I'm waiting for the rolling chassis to be built and delivered. As I wait, I have been working on some research and planning to help get ahead of things. One thing that I recently noticed is that the body does not come with the fiberglass side cut outs for the side pipes, unlike some other kits. Also, the manual that I have does not address making those cut. I was wondering how people have been successfully making those cuts. Has anyone made a template that can be drawn over the spots as a cutting reference....once its determined where the pipes will exit? Also, how does it effect the gelcoat along the edges? I imagine i'll have to sand the edges, but wondering if it will leave a dull looking coat. Also, did you put the body on, then look where the bottom of the headers lined up, then marked those spots for exiting? My last question is how does the fiberglass hold up with the headers right there? Any heat issues?

Anyway, simply put, I am looking for guidance on how to make a successful cut without damaging things nor making incorrect cuts that i can't take back.

Thanks, I'm pretty excited about getting this. I was looking at some other models, but i like the gelcoat option and the split delivery that they offer.

Thanks!

[strictlypersonl]

No magic here. Start with a small hole and enlarge. Get a straight piece of tubing that fits into the primaries. Once you enlarge the hole so that you can put the straight tubing into one of the primary pipes, you can use that location to approximate the other pipe holes. Leave a little extra clearance for when the engine torques over.