What size headers will fit a BB 76 vette?
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From: Sweden, Stockholm.
What size headers will fit a BB 76 vette?
Hello!
So the thing is, I am about to buy a set of headers for my car. My car is a 76 with a 454 ls6 in it. I know 74 was the last year for big blocks, but whatever fits a 74 should also fit a 76? or where there any differences made between those years involving the a-arm shaft or whatever stuff that can be in the way for the headers?
I am thinking of putting sidepipes on it, but that just a thought at the moment. But i would like to have the fattest primary tubes as possible. What size headers have you been able to put into a bb vette of this generation? No AC by the way.
Thanks!
So the thing is, I am about to buy a set of headers for my car. My car is a 76 with a 454 ls6 in it. I know 74 was the last year for big blocks, but whatever fits a 74 should also fit a 76? or where there any differences made between those years involving the a-arm shaft or whatever stuff that can be in the way for the headers?
I am thinking of putting sidepipes on it, but that just a thought at the moment. But i would like to have the fattest primary tubes as possible. What size headers have you been able to put into a bb vette of this generation? No AC by the way.
Thanks!
Last edited by 454LS6; Jul 18, 2012 at 04:19 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2007
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From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
Any C3 BB header should fit any year of the generation. FWIW, I've got the same Hooker sidemounts on the 427 in my '78 that I had on an earlier BB shark.
What color paint is that in your avatar? Looks nice.
What color paint is that in your avatar? Looks nice.
Last edited by TheSkunkWorks; Jul 18, 2012 at 11:21 PM.
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From: NYC NY
There is no guaranty that what works on one big block C3 will work on another. We tried 2 sets of Hedman side exit headers on my '68 NOM big block and neither one fit. Both had idler arm interference and on one set the angle of the R/S header collector was wrong as it was pointed at the ground. We tried a set of Doug's sidepipe headers which have 2 1/8" primary tubes and they fit perfect. Another forum member tried the Doug's and they didn't fit. So go figure. Remember if you do have clearence issues in what ever brand you buy once you "ding" them to make them fit you own them no matter what. I realize you are not in the states so shipping is going to be a problem. Go luck with what ever brand you choose.
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Joined: Nov 2011
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From: Sweden, Stockholm.
There is no guaranty that what works on one big block C3 will work on another. We tried 2 sets of Hedman side exit headers on my '68 NOM big block and neither one fit. Both had idler arm interference and on one set the angle of the R/S header collector was wrong as it was pointed at the ground. We tried a set of Doug's sidepipe headers which have 2 1/8" primary tubes and they fit perfect. Another forum member tried the Doug's and they didn't fit. So go figure. Remember if you do have clearence issues in what ever brand you buy once you "ding" them to make them fit you own them no matter what. I realize you are not in the states so shipping is going to be a problem. Go luck with what ever brand you choose.
LD7W is the paintcode, Silverstone metallic. Used as a stock color on vw cars. Thanks for both replies.
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From: NYC NY
Unfortunately it seems that way. I guess manufacturing tolerances, time and abuse have taken it's toll on these cars. Add current header inconsistencies in manufacturing into the mix and what should fit doesn't always. It's buyer beware and I say that from experience. 
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From: Sweden, Stockholm.
Thanks!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,353
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From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
FWIW, if you elect to keep the rocker moldings, you may have to trim them a bit where the primaries exit towards the collector. Done with care, it shouldn't detract from appearances as long as the sidemounts are on the car. And, IIRC I had to put a small ding in one tube near the steering box, but that could be a memory from another car. The pipes are in storage just now, or I'd verify that.
2-1/8" x 45" primaries into 4" collectors seem pretty well matched for high-perf BB's, and there are quite a few insert choices out there for tuning their sound to your liking. BTW, if you want to guard against joining the Hooker tattoo club, you might want to look into Steel Shields (Bangkok Dean is a CF member).
The sound of an angry BB growling thru a set of Hooker sidemount headers may be one of the best reasons to own a C3. That said, I have seen some quality control complaints over the past couple of years, but both sets I've bought were just about perfect.
2-1/8" x 45" primaries into 4" collectors seem pretty well matched for high-perf BB's, and there are quite a few insert choices out there for tuning their sound to your liking. BTW, if you want to guard against joining the Hooker tattoo club, you might want to look into Steel Shields (Bangkok Dean is a CF member).
The sound of an angry BB growling thru a set of Hooker sidemount headers may be one of the best reasons to own a C3. That said, I have seen some quality control complaints over the past couple of years, but both sets I've bought were just about perfect.
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From: NYC NY
I have a good deal on a pair of 2 1/8" Hooker Super Competition sidemount headers. Read that you were able to fit a pair of 2 1/8" on your car, is your engine compartment stock? as far as goes for things that could be in the way for the headers? You didnt had to dent them anything? Just thinking if 2 1/8 on the primary tubes could be too large or if they should fit, thats the exact size i would like to have.
Thanks!
Thanks!
). I think the odds of the Hooker's working out for you are very good and I would take the chance. As TSW said the 2 1/8 pipe is fine and I would also consider the shields (I have a custom set from Bangkok Dean a forum member here) but that's up to you. Good luck going foward with what ever you choose to do.
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From: Denham Springs LA
I put the Hooker,s on my 76 Bbc. I bought thru used from someone with a 70 vette. He didn't have to ding the pipes anywhere.
To fit my 76 I had to dent them around the steering box, pitman arm, and frame. I had to cut the rocker molding on the drivers side.
It was a lot of work just be patient. It sounds great and looks great (at least I think so).
Roger
To fit my 76 I had to dent them around the steering box, pitman arm, and frame. I had to cut the rocker molding on the drivers side.
It was a lot of work just be patient. It sounds great and looks great (at least I think so).
Roger