454 Headers
 

I’m sure this has been asked a million times. But I would like to get rid of the stock manifolds and replace with headers. I was wondering if you guys have any suggestions on a good set of headers will fit on a 454 that was swapped into a 78 K10, need ones that will clear the frame.


Any suggestions will be appreciated,
Thanks!

Re: 454 Headers
 

I had that same issue in a 68 K10 and never did find anything that would fit so I ended up having the exhaust manifold milled on an angle to clear. This was 20 years ago so I imagine your options are greater now. Have you looked into GM A body headers yet?

Re: 454 Headers
 

I used chevelle headers on my blazer,not full length thou

Re: 454 Headers
 

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=696698 Full length hang down further than the mid length ones. Spirited off road & winder driving (salt-saline-brine) take their toll on non coated tube headers as well.

Re: 454 Headers
 

Hooker has them, PN 7521-1HKR, ceramic coated, according to their website.

I'd call them directly to insure they will fit your application even though they are listed to fit.

Also, be aware that if you move your engine from the stock mounting position none of them will work without some tweaking either of the headers or frame.

No matter what header you choose, I highly recommend purchasing ceramic coated headers to prevent under hood heat from heat soaking the starter and also cooking your wiring.

Would also recommend copper gaskets and pay attention to the header flange thickness, where they bolt to the engine. The thicker, the better. Just my opinion.

I swapped in headers before ceramics became available and ended up having to mount a "Furd" solenoid on the inner fender well to get starter to work due to heat soaking of the starter.

Engine Masters did a test on heat transfer of coated vs un-coated headers and the under hood heat transfer from the two headers was HUGE!

Good luck!

Re: 454 Headers
 

Thanks everyone for the replies. I will look into Chevelle headers and also those Hooker headers. I’m just going to assume that I will have to modify any set a little to get them to fit.

Also good to know about the ceramic coated vs no coated! I will definitely be getting ceramic coated.

Re: 454 Headers
 

If you buy ceramic coated I believe you have to heat cycle them on start up

Re: 454 Headers
 

Correct. Warranty usually states this info as well.

As far as 'heat transfer', I'm curious of the testing conditions/standards. Were two headers that were the same configuration from the same manufacturer w/the two different manufacturer applied coatings tested?

I had the headers for my TBI equipped dually ceramic coated & they still put off a bunch off heat (~700°F off the exhaust port & =/<500°F @ the collector). I also had them on the engine during the break-in cycle since I didn't have an alternative exhaust set-up to utilize (and question how many normal guys do?).

Re: 454 Headers
 

That's great info. I'm getting ready to undertake the same endeavor on my '74 C20. Thanks!

Re: 454 Headers
 

My K30 came with the Dougs or Doug Thorley Try Ys. They look chrome or shiny ceramic, I dont know what is on them. No problems to report.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=643974

Re: 454 Headers
 

I prefer Headman thick flange, I have them on my 1976 454 GMC 1 ton and also on my 84 K30 454. No modifications needed. I would not hesitate to buy them again.