ClaudioC4

I just bought a set of used TPIS Headers and Y pipe (great price), for my 85.

Looking at the installation instructions on the TPIS site it mentions that it is a direct fit no alterations. But reading various posts on header installations I need to replace my starter with the smaller unit.

The question is do I need to replace or can I keep it?

Also, I could not fin an ARP part number for stock bolts for the exhaust manifold, when I replace them with the headers I want new hardware as well does anyone have a part number? I saw some at Corvette Central, would that be my best options.

Thanks

whalepirot

I will never install headers again that are not ceramic coated. Thos, especially true with most 'new' cars that are built with so much underhood plastic.

A prime reason I went with an IMI (American made) mini-starter was to get more clearance from the exhaust due to hot start problems. It was part of, not the entire, cure.

vader86

Have to? no, i didn't on the 86 and its the same starter as 85. Its just very tight, and then prone to heat soaking, even with the ceramic coating.

I do still recommend that you change to the later starter though. After I swapped i was very happy with clearance, it fired up like a snap and had zero heat soak problems.

ClaudioC4

How was wiring the new starter? Did you splice or just run a new wire also from a newer year?

Thanks again

vader86

You can change the wire to the 88-91's wire, which is a little longer, or splice and solder the wires to the solenoid to make them extend long enough. I didn't have to do that. I have seen where others here over the years had to shim it to make it fit perfect, but I didn't have to do that either.

Vett1990

First off the TPIS headers are very well built and coated, if you choose that option.

I have them on my '90 which may have a smaller starter then the '85. The headers should bolt up to your exciting setup, they can and will run very close to the right side X-brace but, they will clear.

If you don't have an MA exhaust law... you could think about changing things after the Y-pipe.. maybe open things up just a bit.

cumbercr

I installed TPiS headers on my 85 with the stock starter. They've been on there for 6 years now with no issues. As far as bolts go, I use the stock bolts where accessories attach. I use stainless allen bolts for all the rest. As I recall they were 3/8-16 x 2". I did wrap the starter wires and other wires that were close to the headers with heat tape.

rrt898

When you say swapped, Do you mean an after market mini starter or a stock starter from a 88-91? The later year starters are that much smaller?

thanks