big block headers
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 277
Likes: 57
From: Va.
big block headers
For the big block guys. I have a 73 454 4 speed with Edelbrock heads. Was wondering if anybody has what I have or close to it and what headers are you using and was there any modifications? Pics would be cool if you can. Thanks.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 1,211
Likes: 936
From: Georgetown, Tx
I'm working with Larry Hofer from Raylar Engineering, and they sell an aluminum performance head for GM 8.1L, 496ci Vortec engine. While the Raylar heads will not bolt up to the earlier 'big blocks' it has the same exhaust manifold pattern as all GM big block engines. The Raylar head will flow, easily as much volume as the Edlebrock head you are planning to use.
I asked Larry for a header recommendation for my upcoming build, about 550hp/600lb-ft with his heads. Larry said the best overall option is to use 'early model big block exhaust manifold' without the AIR ports. He said that GM did a lot of R&D with them and that they flow very well. He also said that they will help tidy-up the engine bay.
So, if the old style exhaust manifolds flow well, I'll use them and reduce some weight under the hood.
They will be similar to those found here. https://store.tracyvette.com/item/1814/
I am worried however, about sticker shock.
I'm sure other guys will check in with great recommendations.
I asked Larry for a header recommendation for my upcoming build, about 550hp/600lb-ft with his heads. Larry said the best overall option is to use 'early model big block exhaust manifold' without the AIR ports. He said that GM did a lot of R&D with them and that they flow very well. He also said that they will help tidy-up the engine bay.
So, if the old style exhaust manifolds flow well, I'll use them and reduce some weight under the hood.
They will be similar to those found here. https://store.tracyvette.com/item/1814/
I am worried however, about sticker shock.
I'm sure other guys will check in with great recommendations.
Last edited by 76-Vetteman; Jul 23, 2021 at 05:09 PM. Reason: typo
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 5,941
Likes: 281
From: Was New Orleans but swam to Baton Rouge LA
Cruise-In IX Veteran
I went with the Headman Elite coated headers on my BBC build. I am running AFR heads with raised exhaust ports. I had to dimple them to clear the steering box and the idler arm.
Is my vette stock?? HAHA
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 20,117
Likes: 9,247
From: Im not allowed to tell you
2020 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
2019 C3 of Year Winner (performance mods)
2016 C3 of Year Finalist
Im running Hedman side exhaust headers but they say they wont work with edelbrock heads
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,527
Likes: 148
From: East London/SW Essex UK
Brodix Race Rite Ovals - (as they use stock BBC port locations) fit fine with Hedman 1 3/4" headers - also fine with Super Comps (not with a/c though) - no mods required with either (although collectors 'hang' very low so ground clearance is an issue)
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 277
Likes: 57
From: Va.
I'm working with Larry Hofer from Raylar Engineering, and they sell an aluminum performance head for GM 8.1L, 496ci Vortec engine. While the Raylar heads will not bolt up to the earlier 'big blocks' it has the same exhaust manifold pattern as all GM big block engines. The Raylar head will flow, easily as much volume as the Edlebrock head you are planning to use.
I asked Larry for a header recommendation for my upcoming build, about 550hp/600lb-ft with his heads. Larry said the best overall option is to use 'early model big block exhaust manifold' without the AIR ports. He said that GM did a lot of R&D with them and that they flow very well. He also said that they will help tidy-up the engine bay.
So, if the old style exhaust manifolds flow well, I'll use them and reduce some weight under the hood.
They will be similar to those found here. https://store.tracyvette.com/item/1814/
I am worried however, about sticker shock.
I'm sure other guys will check in with great recommendations.
I asked Larry for a header recommendation for my upcoming build, about 550hp/600lb-ft with his heads. Larry said the best overall option is to use 'early model big block exhaust manifold' without the AIR ports. He said that GM did a lot of R&D with them and that they flow very well. He also said that they will help tidy-up the engine bay.
So, if the old style exhaust manifolds flow well, I'll use them and reduce some weight under the hood.
They will be similar to those found here. https://store.tracyvette.com/item/1814/
I am worried however, about sticker shock.
I'm sure other guys will check in with great recommendations.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 277
Likes: 57
From: Va.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 5,738
Likes: 644
From: Lincoln, CA
Hedman 68090
https://www.hedman.com/product-detail/68090
I sent them to a local coater who sand blasted and Ceramic coated inside and outside
Last edited by ddawson; Jul 24, 2021 at 05:32 PM.
