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Trying to think around the box...

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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 10:22 PM
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Default Trying to think around the box...

Was looking at a big block installation in a '69 coupe with a/c this weekend. The 427 had AFR aluminum heads and hooker headers. Everything fit well except for the header tube closest to the firewall on the passenger side. The a/c box that protrudes from the firewall had to be "shaved" back so as to eliminate contact with the rear-most exhaust tube. Even then, it was a close fit; too close even for an effective heat shield. Has anyone else had a similar dilemma and a solution? I am about to drop a 454 into my '69 and want to avoid this problem.
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 10:44 PM
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From: In Dreams There Is Truth Ohio
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Headers and A/C makes for a difficult fit. You may want to try another brand if the Hookers are too close
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 10:53 PM
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Any suggestions are welcome...
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 10:58 PM
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You got t-tops? If so, what do you need a/c for?
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 10:59 PM
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Choose....A/C or headers
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 11:01 PM
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I chose headers. I live in San Diego and have t-tops. Is there really a point to a/c when you live here with t-tops? Hah!
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Old Feb 5, 2006 | 11:22 PM
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Go to the Hooker web site and look at the charts. Some of the BBC headers are listed as not for AC cars. I have a set that is listed for a AC car and they fit fine.
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Old Feb 6, 2006 | 08:11 AM
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Thanks for that piece of advice about website. Yes, have t-tops, but summers here are often 100+ with gobs of humidity; a/c is still less expensive than moving to San Diego. Beautiful city, by the way.
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Old Feb 6, 2006 | 08:56 AM
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There is alot of room in the A/C box to cut it back. I cut mine back and fiberglassed a patch over the new hole - thought about making an alumninum panel with zuse fasteners for easy removal , but fiberglass was faster. On top of the patch I put some of that stick-on heat reflective stuff (name eludes me right now). Got enough room for the headers and to get head bolts out.
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