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I scored a set of Hooker 2134 headers off Craigslist for $200. JEGS site says they fit. I managed to remove both the exhaust manifolds w/o breaking any bolts. I also installed the passenger side headers rightly believing it to be easier. Now I’m on the drivers side. It appears I will need to remove the zbar and possibly the oil dipstick to get it installed. I’m hoping to hear tips from those who have done this before.
I do NOT remember having to remove the dipstick??? But it was a while ago....y
For the z-bar connection on the frame I could reach, with an extension, that bolt thru the "gills" on my 68. Not sure what your year side penetration looks like. If I remember there is "foldover" tab there so pay attention to that. Relatively easily overall.
Originally Posted by Bighog
I scored a set of Hooker 2134 headers off Craigslist for $200. JEGS site says they fit. I managed to remove bothe exhaust manifolds w/o breaking any bolts. I also installed the passenger side headers rightly believing it to be easier. Now I’m on the drivers side. It appears I will need to remove the zbar and possibly the oil dipstick to get it installed. I’m hoping to hear tips from those who have done this before.
I removed my Z-bar, and used that opportunity to refurbish it with a rebuild kit.
Fortunately, GM moved the dipstick to the passenger side in 80, so it wasn't a problem on the drivers side. I probably did remove it, though, but I don't remember.
Tip: Use studs, not bolts, and take the spark plugs out, too.
I appreciate all the responses. I do remove the plugs before install. They are in to keep the threads cleaned and debris out. I also stuff paper towel into the exhaust ports to keep debris out, until I’m ready to install the header. I see mention of clips, cotter pins and nuts, but mine has some sort of return spring. At least I could have sworn it did. I’ll go back and look when I get a chance. I did use ARP header bolts. Is that going to be a problem vice the stud?
With studs your gaskets stay in place. With studs you can kinda hang the header, then start the nuts. Much easier in most cases than trying to line up bolts and keep gaskets in the proper location so they don't block off part of the port. With studs you can use special thin nuts that help to get a socket on them in tight places.
But most of all. Studs with nuts are far less likely to loosen up! And overall are a stronger set-up.
This is a good time to pick up the Speed Direct's Clutch Linkage upgrade The spherical ends make the clutch pedal feel so much better than stock. The pedal feel is very noticeable when using the clutch.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (performance mods)
2019 C3 of Year Winner (performance mods)
2016 C3 of Year Finalist
Originally Posted by ctmccloskey
This is a good time to pick up the Speed Direct's Clutch Linkage upgrade The spherical ends make the clutch pedal feel so much better than stock. The pedal feel is very noticeable when using the clutch.
The ends are Hiem joints or Rose joints. I ran it for a while. And yes you would have had a return spring and a spring keeping the bar from the Z bar to the throw out bearing arm as well if it was all original.
I had to remove the oil diosticks on both my SBC and BBC to get the headers installed. You can also cut that bar if you wanted to. I was trimming them off on my small blocks. Old Black Jack headers had them individual so you wouldnt have these issues...
I finally had a day off where it wasn’t raining here in Virginia. It took me 5 hours to get the drivers side header installed in my ratty ‘70 Vette. The most difficult part was removing the oil dipstick tube. I was very concerned I’d break it off in the block. Penetrating oil, heat, and patience won the day. Reinstalling the oil dipstick tube was easy. After that it was like any PITA header install when you don’t have help. I also installed a new water temp sensor since it was there. I installed everything except the Z bar. I’m taking your advice and rebuilding it, since it’s out. I just ordered a rebuild kit. I just wanted to thank everyone for your help and insight
The headers definitely look good. However, I see a new set of custom plug wires in your immediate future! Don't think you can wrap plug wires around a header. Maybe an issue.
70’ Vette 4spd header install help
