Ok this ones going to be weird I know.

What I want to do is replace the stock exhaust manifolds with headers but have them bolt up to the cat just like the stock system. I just paid $1100 for a corsa cat back. I want to use that to say the least.

I'm not doing this for performance as much as bling and to stop exhaust leaks.

Just replaced the exhaust manifold gaskets and one manifold was wobbling around like crazy at the collector while I had it loose from the head to change the gasket.

So I'm going to guess the remaining exhaust sound is coming from there

Before I dive much further into this I'm wondering what might be out there to just replace the manifolds to the cat with chrome or stainless headers?

Are there kits for sale somewhere that cover this? Id prefer long tube headers looks wise personally if possible.

I'm not interested in increasing the performance to be honest as the 383 in it now gives me all the power I want.

Again I know this is kind of off the wall to normal stuff.

 

My 86 exhaust is Hedman Elite headers - collectors welded onto shortened factory Y pipe - cat delete pipe made from 3" pipe with the rear flange of old cat welded on, then into my Magnaflow Catback system.

One option and it was cheap and easy, just like me

 

I also have Hedman Elites on my '87. The install was fairly straightforward except for a couple of things.

First, you need to build a brace for the bottom of the alternator. Look at this thread, post #5. This is an easy fix. Pull al the spark plugs so you don't risk breaking any. The temp sensors can stay in place.

You will need to modify the bracket on the dipstick tube so that it will attach to the header bolt.

I got a bung for the O2 sensor and welded it to the driver's side reducer. The sensor wire is more than long enough.

The #6 plug wire will have to be changed to a 90 degree boot style if you already don't have one there. I ran new Taylor 8mm plug wires up and over the valve covers. You can use the plastic OEM wire retainers. Get some spark plug boots to help keep the heat from the tubes burning the wires. I used some cheap ones from Summit.

Finally the OEM starter will be a PITA to deal with. It has to come out to get the passenger side header in. The before bolting the header on the engine, you have to push that starter back in place. Very little room here I went with a Hitachi-style mini-starter to replace it. I used the Summit Racing mini starter and it works great. A true plug-and-play for the wires and it will go in (or out) without removing the header. I also added some wire insulation around the starter wires and at the fuel lines where they come close to the #4 and #6 tubes.

There's no emissions test where I live so I had true duals installed. Got an X-pipe placed where the main cat would sit.

 

I take it then a bolt on installation isn't going to happen?

I don't mind the starter issues as Ive dealt with that before but I don't have a welder and exhaust shops here I don't mind using for jobs I can wait on but every time I mention something for my vette its a "leave it and they will work on it" no matter how small the job. Not going to happen

I guess after I get a welder I'll look into it again.

 

Have you looked at the Hooker Headers ? I like them, and they are a good price.

Vic

 

Those were some of the first ones I ran across googling. But couldn't find anything that was direct bolt in.

 

I cant speak for the L98. When I was looking for headers for my LT1 and to keep my complete MagnaFlow this is what I found. Exotic Muscle said they had what you are looking for the Corsa and MagnaFlow system.

I wound up getting Melrose headers due to the mixed reviews on Exotic muscle. You could email them and see what you can come up with.

 

Will do thanks !

 

You can get replacement y tubes without pre-cats, 2 1/2", mandrel bends and galvanized, that should bolt right up. Not very expensive, either. Exhaust flow would be increased over stock, but not like headers.