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Another Kooks header install nightmare

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Old Aug 30, 2011 | 11:35 PM
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Default Another Kooks header install nightmare

I started installing a set of 1 3/4 Kooks headers I got from a forum member and this is by far the hardest mod install I have come across. The passenger side went in with not too much trouble but I have the driverside header stuck at the moment. I have the engine lifted up as high as it will go on the driverside and the collector is barely under the oil filter flange and the alternator bracket is resting inside the no 1 primary pipe. I've tried to wedge the engine over to the passenger side with a jack handle and it will barely budge.
Has anyone that has done this install run across this same point in the install process?
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Old Aug 30, 2011 | 11:45 PM
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You need to pull the alternator and the bracket. Make sure you disconnect the battery first.

Also remove the spark plugs, wires and valve cover. Disconnect the steering rod.

It's a biotch of an install.
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Old Aug 30, 2011 | 11:54 PM
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Last time we did the driver side on mine, we had to take off the bellhousing cover and the alternator and jack the car way way up to get it in from the bottom.
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Old Aug 30, 2011 | 11:57 PM
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Well ive removed the valve cover, oil filter, oil sensor, temp sensor, plugs and wires, alternator and disconnected the steering rod at the steering box like the instructions say. guess ill have to take the alternator bracket loose as well. I'm starting to really wonder if these are the best headers on the market.
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Old Aug 31, 2011 | 12:05 AM
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Well I dont think going in from the bottom is an option. I climbed under the car before I jammed it in the top and I would have to jack it up much higher to get it in and its about as high as my jack will go. plus the instructions say for both to go in from the top so it has to be possible.
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Old Aug 31, 2011 | 09:58 AM
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FWIW:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-t...e-headers.html
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Old Aug 31, 2011 | 11:31 PM
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Victory! got it in. I ended up having to loosen the alternator bracket and lifting the steering shaft up and out of the engine bay and letting it rest against the washer tank. It looked like less room to slide it down but it allowed more room down low where I needed it. Now looking at those nice headers, I feel like it was worth the bloody knuckles and curse words.
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