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'72 BB headers?

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Old Jun 13, 2005 | 08:02 PM
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Default '72 BB headers?

What headers are available and work well with these cars?

'72 454 4-spd (for now, possible Keisler 5-spd in the near future)

I have always been happy with Hooker Super Comp headers (although I have some new Kook's for my '96 Camaro that are very nice, but would be overkill for a "cruiser")

So, any snags on installation? Any parts that headers wont work with or make worse? I will be having them coated in a high temp coating (inside and outside) with a black ceramic coating.

I don't want sidepipes... well ok, I DO, but don't want to spend the money or modify the car past what it looks like (appearance wise.)

I will be having a new exhaust system built up (hopefully with mandrel bent pipes) with some Borla mufflers.

Are there any companies that make pre-made mandrel bent exhausts for these cars? And what size tubing can I use for the exhaust, going through the framerail and such?

I'm sure the 2.5" pipes would be ok, but 3" would probably be overkill for this motor.
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Old Jun 13, 2005 | 08:59 PM
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I use Hedman headers, they are inexpensive, large 2 inch tubing and they fit very well. Mine are about 16 years old and never had a problem. They are also wrapped to cut down heat.
I run 3 inch exhuast but I feel you would only need 2 1/2 and a 2 1/2 inch exhuast is alot quieter then 3 inch.
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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 02:18 AM
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2" primaries sounds like overkill for this low rpm motor... And the few times I've used hedman headers they have fallen apart...
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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 08:24 AM
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My '73 454 has Hedmans. They haven't fallen apart and they still seal well after about 6 years.

But it sounds like you're already hooked in Hookers. That's not a bad thing, as they've always been my first chioce. My '73 has the Hedmans because that's what the P.O. put on there.
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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 08:56 AM
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Originally Posted by ZO SIC
2" primaries sounds like overkill for this low rpm motor...
If not Hedman 2", then Hooker 1 7/8 BB.
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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 02:58 PM
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Well Hedman does make different style/quality headers too, right? They have their basic (cheapo) style and then a higher end style too?

I have been running 1 3/4" LT headers on my '96 Camaro with a 396 solid roller 11.9:1 comp with good flowing AFR heads and just now am switching to the 1 3/4" to 1 7/8" stepped with a 3.5" collector.

I know a 454 can/will flow more air then the high revving 396, but 2" still seems big for a basic performance motor.

Anyone else have any input on primary size? And with a 2" primary, what size are the collectors?
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Old Jun 14, 2005 | 03:46 PM
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I don't think 2" is going to hurt you, but I think 1 7/8 sounds about right. I run 2" headers on my 502 and feel like they're perfect.

Oh, I forgot to say - the Hedmans have a 3" collector.
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Old Jun 15, 2005 | 01:06 PM
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Originally Posted by ZO SIC
'72 454 4-spd (for now, possible Keisler 5-spd in the near future)

Great idea

Robert
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Old Jun 15, 2005 | 08:28 PM
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Originally Posted by Robert Hall - Keisler Sales
Great idea

Robert

It is a hard decision right now with other projects in the works.

Nearly $4,000 for the 5-spd with hydralic clutch parts, new clutch, shipping, etc.

Or $500-$800 for a new clutch, new stock linkage parts and a Hurst shifter...

I REALLY want the Keisler 5-spd, but I don't know if I can do it right now...
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