Headers
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2011
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Headers
I am considering putting headers on my '90. Is it a straightforward installation or do modifications need to be made. I was looking at the headers in Eckler's. I am not planning to do it myself but was not sure how extensive the installation would be. Also what are the pros and cons of the headers. Any advice is appreciated
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 222
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If your paying to have someone do it then its not a huge nightmare (for you) other then cost. You will need a new alt bracket fabed up and the bracket for your ac will need to be tweaked also. If you have an l98 (i can speak from knowledge here) the pluses are huge. The negative are if you need to smog or have it inspected.
Team Owner
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 34,873
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From: Lacey WA RVN 68-69
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Hedman Elites are a good choice and other members have installed them. There are two versions; one with hookups for the AIR system and the other without. Both are coated for a nice look and longer life. Summit Racing has both versions.
The install is pretty straightforward. On the passenger side, the header goes in from the bottom and the oil dipstick tube will have to be removed as will the starter. The driver's side goes in from the top. As mentioned, the rear tubular support brackets for the alternator and A/C compressor will have to be tweaked, but it's not a big deal.
This would be a good time to get new spark plugs and wires. Look for wires that have all 90 degree plug boots. The stock-style wires for cylinders 6 and 8 are different than the rest and IIRC, the #6 stock wire won't easily work with headers. It would be a good idea to get some slip-on plug boot protectors to keep the wires and boots from melting.
An O2 sensor bung will have to be installed and it can be welded in on the reducer.
An exhaust shop will have to build a Y-pipe from the collectors back to the main catalytic converter. Do you live in an area where there is mandatory emissions testing? Without the OEM pre-cats, you may have to do some tuning to pass any sniffer test.
You can expect a gain in HP of maybe 15-20 and some increase in torque. Depending on the mufflers you have, you may see an increase in the exhaust note.
The install is pretty straightforward. On the passenger side, the header goes in from the bottom and the oil dipstick tube will have to be removed as will the starter. The driver's side goes in from the top. As mentioned, the rear tubular support brackets for the alternator and A/C compressor will have to be tweaked, but it's not a big deal.
This would be a good time to get new spark plugs and wires. Look for wires that have all 90 degree plug boots. The stock-style wires for cylinders 6 and 8 are different than the rest and IIRC, the #6 stock wire won't easily work with headers. It would be a good idea to get some slip-on plug boot protectors to keep the wires and boots from melting.
An O2 sensor bung will have to be installed and it can be welded in on the reducer.
An exhaust shop will have to build a Y-pipe from the collectors back to the main catalytic converter. Do you live in an area where there is mandatory emissions testing? Without the OEM pre-cats, you may have to do some tuning to pass any sniffer test.
You can expect a gain in HP of maybe 15-20 and some increase in torque. Depending on the mufflers you have, you may see an increase in the exhaust note.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2012
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On my 84 I plan on installing Hedman Hedders 68446 - Hedman Street Hedders, anyone know if and any miss ill have to do or any fabrication other than getting some new exhaust pipes worked in. I live in SC so emissions isn't an issue.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2012
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Racer
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 361
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If your paying to have someone do it then its not a huge nightmare (for you) other then cost. You will need a new alt bracket fabed up and the bracket for your ac will need to be tweaked also. If you have an l98 (i can speak from knowledge here) the pluses are huge. The negative are if you need to smog or have it inspected.
Last edited by Corvette40; Aug 25, 2012 at 10:51 PM.
