C3 Hooker Side pipe headers ls swap
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 13
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C3 Hooker Side pipe headers ls swap
Just recently picked up a 77 Corvette with a full side pipe system using the hooker headers with the 4 inch collectors. i have been thinking of an LS swap, but I don't want to spend extra for custom headers and I'm wondering if the clearances would allow me to weld a new flange on the hookers and relocate the pipes to fit the pattern on the LS heads. I'm also wondering how much I would have to cut to keep the headers exiting in the same locations so the pipes bolt up right if anyone has ever attempted this.
Ethan
Ethan
C3. 427, 4-link, c7 z06
Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 999
Likes: 209
From: Virginia
This is the main reason I went with a sb 427 rather than the LS. I really wanted the sidepipes. Iron resurection did an episode with a 68 LS and it looks like they used the 4" pipes but custom made the headers.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2020
Posts: 1,568
Likes: 578
From: Wisconsin
Several companies have LS sidepipe headers for C3's with Doug's or Hooker style sidepipes, so you aren't really buying a custom set anymore.
But, I get it, even the off-the shelf ones are pretty pricey.
But, I get it, even the off-the shelf ones are pretty pricey.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 7,804
Likes: 4
From: Standing still with all my might Texas
Cruise-In X Veteran
St. Jude Donor '09-'11
You also need to consider where you mount the oxygen sensors. The only place they can be mounted and stay hidden is on the inside lower part of the pipe, but you run the risk of fouling the sensors with water condensation if they aren’t mounted in the top half of the exhaust.
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 11,960
Likes: 4,518
From: Virginia
Pics? Have you driven the car much? If it doesn't have three pedals, fix that first, and you may find it doesn't need an LS.
My side pipe 80 will likely always be an SBC, but my 79 may get an LS soon. No reason not to do an under car exhaust with an LS, as even stock manifolds flow well on them. You can easily sell the sidepipes.
My side pipe 80 will likely always be an SBC, but my 79 may get an LS soon. No reason not to do an under car exhaust with an LS, as even stock manifolds flow well on them. You can easily sell the sidepipes.
C3. 427, 4-link, c7 z06
Joined: Sep 2019
Posts: 999
Likes: 209
From: Virginia
good point regarding the o2 sensor Kevin. I agree there is no perfect place to mount them if they are hidden. Mine are mounted in the collector but angle down 10-15 degrees to miss the frame. This is not ideal but did work. I did fouled one when tuning and they are pricey.
