How much clearance between header pipes and engine bay hardware??
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 3,747
Likes: 713
From: Lafayette Louisiana
How much clearance between header pipes and engine bay hardware??
Just got a 68 327 L79 Coupe with OBX headers/side pipes and noticed one of the header pipes is touching the back of the pittman arm. Not a lot of room for the spaghetti header pipes and I am already worried about cooking the uninsulated starter. Steering seems to turn ok.
How much clearance is needed between header pipes and engine bay parts? Suggestions?
Much thanks and Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all!
How much clearance is needed between header pipes and engine bay parts? Suggestions?
Much thanks and Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to all!
Had a 1976 L-82, 4-sp
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 5,338
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From: Some days your the dog and some days your the hydrant.
Royal Canadian Navy
Air flow makes for a good heat insulator providing there is air flow between the header and whatever the part. I have a header pipe close to the idler arm, ~1/4", but no issues with grease melting. Not as close to the starter but still no problem. I personally don't worry about the header heat because heat is constantly being removed with my mech'l fan blowing "cooler" air around the engine compartment and exiting below the engine and the fender vents.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 2,275
Likes: 483
From: Salmon Arm, BC
I had to put a small ding in my headers to clear the idler arm, I have had about 1/8" clearance for about 5 years now with two different sets of headers and have had no issues. I also have the clutched mechanical fan.
Thread Starter
Safety Car
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 3,747
Likes: 713
From: Lafayette Louisiana
Great info and thanks for the responses!
I have avoided putting in electric fans as I like the old school look.
But,.....need to rethink that for sure.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!!
I have avoided putting in electric fans as I like the old school look.
But,.....need to rethink that for sure.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!!
