GT's 78

I'm trying to figure out how to run my exhaust to my 69(style) side exhaust covers. Engine is 383 solid roller with right at 500hp & torque. The choice I'm trying to make is between two headers. The first set is hedman with 1 5/8" primaries 3" collectors, turn directly to side to go down side pipe covers. The second set I'm considering is Hooker Super Comp's (tuned) with 1 3/4" primaries 3" collectors. With the Hookers I will then have to make a U-turn from the collector to go back up to route down the side pipe covers. Both options will have 3" the rest of the way. I guess my dilemma is how much am I giving up with the 1 5/8" (non-tuned) primaries v/s having to make 2 u-turns after the collectors with the Hookers. I hope this makes sense. Thanks for any insight you might have.

qwank

Stahl sells some that go all the way to 2'' primaries.

http://www.stahlheaders.com/Frame%20New%20Drag.htm

scottyp99

Don't use two 180 degree bends to run conventional headers, people will laugh when they look under your car. Use headers designed to mate up with the side pipes. Way cooler looking, and I think the extra bends will negate any gains from the Hookers, anyway.

Scott

82CFI

Another header source suitable for side exhaust: http://www.vetteheaders.com/servlet/...orvette/Detail

Might call and ask if they can make them in the primary size that you want. I wouldn't go larger than 1-7/8" in order to preserve your low end torque and still breathe great on the high end. My choice for a 383 would be 1-3/4" which is ideal even for SBs up to 427CI.

qwank

those look just like the Hedmans but with an extra $100 tacked onto the price. They even have the ball and socket collector fit

82CFI

Looks like it ... except for the added ceramic coating. Hedmans available at Summit for $199.97 so quite a bit cheaper but the 1-5/8" primary diameter is too small for his 500HP 383 IMHO.

Also, I agree with Scott that you wouldn't want to do the 2 u-turns using a conventional straight back header for the reasons that he mentioned. I've had thoughts about using a straight back header, cutting a hole in side of the collector to mate (weld in) my side pipes and capping the collector end with either a flat plate or one of those electrically operated gates. When performance was needed (at the track), you can just uncap the header but of course on the street there will be the penalty when the exhaust gases make the right angle turn to go to the side exhausts.

82CFI

Sweet-Thunder, another side exhaust source with many options: http://www.sweet-thunder.com/corvett...pes_68_74.html

They recommend contacting McJacks if you desire custom built headers that fit your side exhaust choice: http://www.mcjackscorvettes.com/headerspage.htm

Good luck with your side exhaust project.

MIKE80

I'm trying to figure out the same thing right now. McJacks and Hedman are the same 1 5/8" primary, Stahl stopped building sidepipes and are liquidating assets, and a custom built setup is $2,000-$3,000.

Have you come up with anything yet?