Hooker manifold and starter issue.

[Root2812]

So I purchased some manifolds from Hooker.
https://www.holley.com/products/exha...arts/8501-3HKR

I am running into a few problems and questions. When I went to put them on the right side manifold hits the starter heat shield. They say the manifolds fit my 2000 5.3L engine so I am not sure why they would be rubbing. I took the heat shield off since I am just in the mock up phase and now the manifold fits. Can I run without the heat shield or will I have problems later? Will I need a mini starter?

I am running an f-body pan and dipstick, which the manifolds should clear but they don't. I think I can bend the dip stick a little though.

Has anyone else run into these problems with the hooker manifolds and what did you do?

Thanks.

[truckdude239]

those are basliccy the same as the tbsss manifolds should clear, i wouldnt run without the heat shied

[Steve Cole]

Wow, I thought those were supposed to fit everything. Sorry I can't help but this is good to know as I was probably going to buy these. Keep us posted how this turns out and good luck!

[Nodnarb76]

I used those manifolds when I did my swap. I replaced my starter with a new AC Delco starter when I did my swap also. I have no rubbing issues, the manifolds and starter fit fine. Are you using an aftermarket starter?
Now that I think about it, my new starter did not come with a heat shield, and the old rusty starter I took off didn't have one either. FWIW, I have about 9,000 miles on my truck now and have never had a problem with the starter with a missing heat shield.

[72MARIO]

I may not be much help but the 6.0 starters are bigger than the 4.8 and 5.3. That might give you the clearance you need.

I am using a 5.3 starter on my 6.0 and it been fine for a year.

[BR3W CITY]

I didn't know the starter even had a heat shield. My '66 hasn't had one for the 15k ish on it.

[Root2812]

Originally Posted by Nodnarb76

I used those manifolds when I did my swap. I replaced my starter with a new AC Delco starter when I did my swap also. I have no rubbing issues, the manifolds and starter fit fine. Are you using an aftermarket starter?
Now that I think about it, my new starter did not come with a heat shield, and the old rusty starter I took off didn't have one either. FWIW, I have about 9,000 miles on my truck now and have never had a problem with the starter with a missing heat shield.

Originally Posted by BR3W CITY

I didn't know the starter even had a heat shield. My '66 hasn't had one for the 15k ish on it.

Thats good to know. I took the small clip on heat shield off for now and it seems to be fine for fit. If you guys aren't having problems then I won't worry about it any more.

Just incase I am not calling it by the right name here is a pic i found online. The clip on metal shielding on the top of the image is what I am talking about.