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Hi all! On my ‘71 LT1, as it sits, I have nice rams horns with everything from there to the tail being brand new. I want form over function (actually, aesthetics vs originality) and am wondering if there is a header that is a direct replacement for the rams horns? Something that will bolt up exactly where/exactly like those rams horns do to the rest of the system? Looking for the replacement header like looks, but without having to modify anything else. Not wanting for any kind of performance increase, just something that looks better than the cast iron, antique feel that the rams horns present. Thanks in advance for any advice on those who have done so. Please refrain from “I wouldn’t do that because…” type advice as I really do not care. Just wanting something that suits me as described.
Last edited by litevette; Apr 5, 2025 at 11:41 AM.
You are looking for something "pretty" to take the place of those ugly exhaust manifolds ?
Okay how about some Sanderson hot rod manifolds or how about some nice chrome street rod shorty headers ??
If I understand you right, why not just get your current ram horns coated? You could do powder coat, ceramic coat, etc.
Or are you saying you don’t like how the ram horns are physically shaped/ how they look?
Thanks for the input guys! All good points. @Piersonpie Those DEFINITELY have the look. Maybe I’m wrong, but think the LT1 turned into 2 1/2 “. I may have to investigate these. I agree with ignatz, but would be ok with those coated. They are smooth and clean looking, like I want. Not as utilitarian with un-needed bulges, etc like the rams horns. Those might just be the ticket! @Bikespace I have the originals… wouldn’t repos just be a new version of the same? Unless you know something I do not? @randallsteel It is the bulky physical shape of them. Looking at them vs what Piersonpie posted and you can see what I mean. The rams horns have all kinds of blockiness, bulges, un-needed bolt heads, etc. @QIK59 The shorty headers I’ve seen are kind of a one size fits all if I remember correctly. I’m trying to get a true bolt in, bolt up to the rest of what I have with no fab work involved. Does Sandersan make something like that, or are they also a generalized shorty?
I’ll have to look further at them, but the one’s Piersonpie posted sure as heck look like they might bolt right into what is already there. Mucho thanks guys!!!
@Bikespace I have the originals… wouldn’t repos just be a new version of the same? Unless you know something I do not?
New repros might (might) be smoother inside, and flow better (not what you want, but still). And you wouldn't risk your (possibly rare) exhaust manifolds.
Are you dependent on any part of them for alternator mounting? The stock ones appear to have provisions for that.
From what I can tell, your stock manifolds are 2" outlet. I thought only C2s ever came with 2 1/2" outlet manifolds. Perhaps they have already been changed, but you should measure. I would 100% just use some cheap, ceramic coated repro smoothies with a 2 1/2" outlet, and adapt to your current pipes, but YMMV.
New repros might (might) be smoother inside, and flow better (not what you want, but still). And you wouldn't risk your (possibly rare) exhaust manifolds.
Are you dependent on any part of them for alternator mounting? The stock ones appear to have provisions for that.
From what I can tell, your stock manifolds are 2" outlet. I thought only C2s ever came with 2 1/2" outlet manifolds. Perhaps they have already been changed, but you should measure. I would 100% just use some cheap, ceramic coated repro smoothies with a 2 1/2" outlet, and adapt to your current pipes, but YMMV.
I just did a little more reading. Still a bit confused on what I read, but yes… apparently the c2’s were the last of the 2 1/2”. If I’m reading correctly, the horns are 2”, then the rest is 2 1’2”. So, yes on your advice to measure. Glad I bought a digital micrometer! After Piersonpie’s lead, I went to Speedway’s site. Looks like they have more than a few viable options, from varied finishes (some very budget friendly) and from the smooth one’s he showed to one’s that are a little more like the originals, but more of a “Frenched” or smoothed out version. Looks like I have a little more homework to do. I’m not sure about the alternator bracket. This car came with a new in the box, factory styled repro mount, but already had an alternator mounted with an aftermarket system (not tied to the horns) which I may just run with. If I have to work around something like that, I’d rather do that and get a cool looking header. Thanks brother!
Hi all! On my ‘71 LT1, as it sits, I have nice rams horns with everything from there to the tail being brand new. I want form over function (actually, aesthetics vs originality) and am wondering if there is a header that is a direct replacement for the rams horns? Something that will bolt up exactly where/exactly like those rams horns do to the rest of the system? Looking for the replacement header like looks, but without having to modify anything else. Not wanting for any kind of performance increase, just something that looks better than the cast iron, antique feel that the rams horns present. Thanks in advance for any advice on those who have done so. Please refrain from “I wouldn’t do that because…” type advice as I really do not care. Just wanting something that suits me as described.
I’m going to recommend the Sanderson Headers for several reasons.
They have been building headers since the 1960’s, still owned by the same family and still at their original location in South San Francisco CA.
Sanderson headers are by far the best quality headers on the market and their quality consists of thicker flanges, thicker primary tubing, superior welds, silver ceramic coating outside and though the entire inside of the headers, plus their head flanges are designed to be 100% leak free without using gaskets.
I have a set sitting on my shelf ready to bolt on my big block just in case I have any issues with my long tube headers.
Call Sanderson and talk with the owner Donna who knows more than anyone about header manufacturing.
I’ve been buying Sanderson headers for decades, never had any issues with fitment.
Direct Swap For Rams Horns?
