best headers for small block?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 178
Likes: 2
From: York UK
best headers for small block?
Hi Guys,
I just had new Magnaflow mufflers fitted to my '69 350 manual but they still don't sound great at low speed. I'm still using the original ramshorn manifolds, and I wondered if headers would give the proper V8 sound. I've got 2 and a half pipes. What's the best to buy - Hooker or Hedman? Will they make any difference and will they fit the car - there's no air con or power brakes. Any advice on the best headers to buy? I'm in the UK so I'd buy them here if I could.
Thanks,
Barry.
I just had new Magnaflow mufflers fitted to my '69 350 manual but they still don't sound great at low speed. I'm still using the original ramshorn manifolds, and I wondered if headers would give the proper V8 sound. I've got 2 and a half pipes. What's the best to buy - Hooker or Hedman? Will they make any difference and will they fit the car - there's no air con or power brakes. Any advice on the best headers to buy? I'm in the UK so I'd buy them here if I could.
Thanks,
Barry.
Racer
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 413
Likes: 22
From: Justin TX
I have a 69 with 350 and Turbo 400. I put a set of coated Headman on her and love the sound. I like the way Headman connects to the exhaust pipes, you never have to worry about flange gasket leaks.
The only issue is that on the passenger side where the idler bolts to the frame you will have to bend the tube to clear it. I bought mine used and wondered why they were bent. I straightened it up then had to re-bend them to clear. Not a big deal but just an FYI. I would have the check the precise part number but they were the correct ones for the car according to Headman. You would think after 40 years they would be fit without modification but they are not.
I have heard of similar issues with other brands so assume this is typical. This is my first set so I was not expecting an issue like this.
The only issue is that on the passenger side where the idler bolts to the frame you will have to bend the tube to clear it. I bought mine used and wondered why they were bent. I straightened it up then had to re-bend them to clear. Not a big deal but just an FYI. I would have the check the precise part number but they were the correct ones for the car according to Headman. You would think after 40 years they would be fit without modification but they are not.
I have heard of similar issues with other brands so assume this is typical. This is my first set so I was not expecting an issue like this.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,809
Likes: 441
From: Denver CO
I have Ceramic coated Hooker Competition long tubes w/2 1/2 on mine.Tight fit but no mods needed.Nice rumble at idle w/flowmaster series 40. Killer sounding when you get on it!A little more giddy up compared to ramhorns.
Team Owner
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 21,953
Likes: 1,445
From: Reno Nevada
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist- Modified
Get coated headers or stainless steel. I had the Headman headers for years and then switched to the bigger 1 3/4 primary size Hooker Super comp.
I tried various locking header bolt ideas. I use ARP studs, but these work.
FelPro blue steel header gaskets are the best. I think this is what you need on stock heads.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/fe...make/chevrolet
http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...Header%20Bolts
http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...5%2B4294849860
I tried various locking header bolt ideas. I use ARP studs, but these work.
FelPro blue steel header gaskets are the best. I think this is what you need on stock heads.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/fe...make/chevrolet
http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...Header%20Bolts
http://www.summitracing.com/search/p...5%2B4294849860
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 14,948
Likes: 3,351
From: NYC NY
Just a thought.............
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