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Big Block Header Question

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Old Sep 2, 2014 | 08:17 PM
  #1  
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Default Big Block Header Question

I need to borrow some expertise with regards to headers. I have a 68 coupe that was originally a small block that has been replaced with a Gen IV 454. It has an automatic transmission (TH-400) and I have upgraded to a Borgenson steering box (pretty much the same size as the original one but just thought I would mention it). It came with some Frankenstein headers that look to have been welded out of junk yard parts. Anyway, I would really like to replace them.

My buddy at the local speed shop called today and said that he just took a really clean set of 1 7/8" oval port, ceramic coated headers off of a 1965 Impala SS with big block and 4-speed. The headers were being replace because they are do not fit well on the Impala's large rectangular port heads. I can pick them up for only a fraction of the price of a new set. He said that he can't find any manufacturer's name on them.

Can anyone tell me if there is any chance that the Impala headers might fit in my Vette without totally mangling them trying to get them to fit? I would really appreciate some help on this. I would hate to let this deal slid by if they would fit. Just hoping to get a break for a change!

Thanks,

Kelly
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 10:32 AM
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If you look at a particular manufacturer such as Hedman they do not use the same part number for the two vehicles.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 11:00 AM
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my experience with corvettes tells me they will not fit. get a set made for the car. i don't think the borgeson box will be much of an issue if it is it isn't anything a ball peen hammer won't fix.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 11:55 AM
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Odds of them fitting in a Vette are slim to none. Sorry.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 07:15 PM
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You will need block huggers at the very least.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 07:24 PM
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Originally Posted by commander_47
You will need block huggers at the very least.
Actually, my full length Hedman headers w/ 2" primary tubes fit with the Borgeson box- w/o having to dent any tubes.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 08:26 PM
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I vote nope.

Hell I had to even dimple my direct fit Hedman headers to fit.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 10:01 PM
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Thanks everyone. Ya'll pretty much convinced me of what I did not want to admit. I was just having a hard time saying "no" to a set of decent $200 ceramic coated headers. I guess I will just have to stick with my Frankenheaders until I can justify a new proper set.

Les, that is pretty amazing that you got 2" headers to fit with no modifications. Good job.

I really appreciate your input.
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 10:52 PM
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Originally Posted by commander_47
You will need block huggers at the very least.


I have Hooker super comp on mine,......... 2 1/8 tube 3 1/2 collector......If the part number is different they will not fit
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Old Sep 3, 2014 | 11:07 PM
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Hell I had to even dimple my direct fit Hedman headers to fit.
Yup
Headman 2" BBC Vette headers...using Aluminum Heads with raised ports
Had to give mine a few smacks on the passenger side by the frame rail and steering box side clearance is about 1/4"
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Old Sep 4, 2014 | 12:06 AM
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Originally Posted by 68 Issues
Thanks everyone. Ya'll pretty much convinced me of what I did not want to admit. I was just having a hard time saying "no" to a set of decent $200 ceramic coated headers. I guess I will just have to stick with my Frankenheaders until I can justify a new proper set.

Les, that is pretty amazing that you got 2" headers to fit with no modifications. Good job.

I really appreciate your input.
In my case I'm sure it was more luck than anything- lucky that my aftermarket heads don't have raised exhaust ports. Raised port heads appear to force some tube denting to get enough clearance. I left the headers bolted in place, removed the power brake booster, and dropped the Borgeson box in from the top. One tube had 1/8" clearance and another had 1/4". Tight but it worked.
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