Header choices for vortec heads
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 318
Likes: 3
From: NP Nebraska
Header choices for vortec heads
I have done extensive searching on this. It seems like there is some confusion about what size, shape, length, etc. will work. My main objectives are a mild sound (as quiet as possible) at cruise with zero drone. I'm not looking to side mount.
As near as I can tell I don't need to go bigger than 1 5/8" primaries for a 383 street car. I have seen a couple complaints of leaks from round primary inlets - most recommended oval shape. Huggers are out. I have seen a lot of threads reporting that you need to modify the trans cross member to run full length headers as the bend to go stock route is too severe.
I have looked for whole systems at all my favorite retail sites. I though Jegs had a header/complete system but I sure can't find it now. My plan is to put on the headers and take it in to the local shop for a quote on finishing an X-pipe dual system. If it is outrageous then I will likely go with the Corvette Central H-pipe (http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050G). Problems with that system include the "not for highway use" warning and the fact that I can't find out what type of Magnaflows are included.
As near as I can tell I don't need to go bigger than 1 5/8" primaries for a 383 street car. I have seen a couple complaints of leaks from round primary inlets - most recommended oval shape. Huggers are out. I have seen a lot of threads reporting that you need to modify the trans cross member to run full length headers as the bend to go stock route is too severe.
I have looked for whole systems at all my favorite retail sites. I though Jegs had a header/complete system but I sure can't find it now. My plan is to put on the headers and take it in to the local shop for a quote on finishing an X-pipe dual system. If it is outrageous then I will likely go with the Corvette Central H-pipe (http://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb....Z5Z5Z50000050G). Problems with that system include the "not for highway use" warning and the fact that I can't find out what type of Magnaflows are included.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,291
Likes: 493
From: Salmon Arm, BC
Standard long tube smallblock headers fit onto vortec heads with no troubles. The problem comes when fitting them to the chassis. I bought the hedman elite series for my vortec headed 406 and had troubles on the pax side with the idler arm, and on the drivers side with the power steering ram.
Just get some that fit and take your car to the local muffler shop (that you have checked out for workmanship) and have them build you a nice system.....
Just get some that fit and take your car to the local muffler shop (that you have checked out for workmanship) and have them build you a nice system.....
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 5
From: Richardson Tx.
I just installed the Summit brand long tube headers - around $120. I have Vortecs. They were a good fit. I took my car to the muffler shop and had them mate my existing dual exhaust to the headers. Cost me $125.
BTW- I was concerned about drone (since I don't have an H-pipe). I was pleasantly surprised that I don't hear any drone.
BTW- I was concerned about drone (since I don't have an H-pipe). I was pleasantly surprised that I don't hear any drone.
Racer
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 498
Likes: 77
From: DFW Texas
I went with Hedman Hedders with Jet Hot coating on my 74 with 330 horse crate engine, vortec heads. Purchased the magna flow 14236 polished mufflers, and also got the basic x pipe setup from Jegs. Works great, quite around town with no resonance but roars pretty well went you step on it. Had a local shop help with the final install after I pre-assembled it in the garage.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,253
Likes: 4
From: East Wenatchee (2hours from n e where) WA
I have a set of Hooker super comps (2151 iirc) out in the shop. I also have a set if L98 113's. I dont think I have any straight plug heads though. I can bolt these up and take a couple pics if it will help out.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 318
Likes: 3
From: NP Nebraska
Does anybody have an idea why the Hedman 68306 full length headers have that simple shape and how it effects performance, durability, and fit? I was set to order some traditional headers then realized these could be easier to fit and wrap???
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 5,086
Likes: 786
From: Lebanon Township New Jersey
1 5/8 inch primaries are OK for a mild 383. Here is a pic of mine. Plug wire routing with Vortecs is the real challenge. The boot at the #4 cyl. is very close. I had to dimple the pipe and use the insulator on the wire. No other issues. These are Dynomax headers.
Instructor
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 120
Likes: 2
From: Kennebunk, ME
Hedman Hedders
I went with Hedman 68309 (1-5/8" primaries and 3" collectors) in my 73 with a crate motor with Aluminum Vortec Heads and had no issues with fit. I bought Accel 8001B Wires with Armor Shield and got creative on the routing and I'm very pleased with them. I had the headers coated locally which had mixed results (you can get a ceramic coated version of these from Hedman. They were initally backordered through Summit for about 90 days before I got them. I bought an undercar chambered exhaust kit and initially used flex pipe to connect to the Hedman supplied connector pieces but had a local shop clean them up and eliminate the flex. With the windows down and the tops off, you can have a conversation while cruising but it's "loud" when you stomp on it.
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Drifting
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1,253
Likes: 4
From: East Wenatchee (2hours from n e where) WA
I am headed to the lake for the week end. Ill get some pics up (113's Hooker SC) when I get back I have a set of Eddie Performer RPM 185's I should be able to mock up as well. iirc the Eddies are straight plug.
Racer
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 424
Likes: 9
From: Killeen Texas
I bought the "direct fit" Hedman headers and they fit perfectly. Have the TH350 trans. and had to put a small bend in one of the trans. cooling lines to clear the collector flange, but piece of cake. Installed one from the top, one from the bottom. Very easy. Good Luck to you whatever path you take. Sincerely.