Which Headers?

[MikeB]

Originally Posted by 71 super

The hedman 1.75 headers fit well, but will need to be installed from the bottom if the truck 's engine is in the stock v8 location (front holes). the headers will be tight but are created exactly like the 1 5/8 versions. you will have some issues with the number 3/5 plug wires so plan on a set of two of the boots from dei. the headers actually have very good clearance unless you are running bags especially for full length headers. If you are bagged or really low static, buy a set of mid lengths, I used a set on my 68 anniversary truck with 383 / brodix set up and had to do a minor trim of frame rail to clear tubes. Headers on it were for Camaro i think. Can post pics after work, but they allowed me to place exhaust inside the frame rail area to hide it.

Not making fun of your post, but "headers fit well" has become a relative statement, actually meaning "They only need extra clearance in a few places, and are close to only a few spark plugs!"

We all recognize and accept it, so the manufacturers just keep popping out headers that "sorta fit" depending on which worker did the cuts, bends, and welding. My Hedmans are very well made, but I'd bet a burger and a beer that if I bought two more pairs, they would fit slightly different than mine and each other.

[71 super]

Mike at the end of the day you are correct, however what is the end result that people are after with headers? If you are concerned with all original - I have several that are to the letter original then grades are not an option. On the other hand if you are looking for performance, then ram horns are not it, people running street engines very likely will do well with 15/8 headers but the op asked about 1/34 which are the largest sb truck headers on market with out custom build. My guess if he is looking for that, he feels that his engine needs or requires that- possibly after being told by the engine builder. The direction he seems to be going I’d bet is not too worried if he needs to run a couple of $30 protectors for the result he is after, nor is he worried about minimal trimming. I have been lucky enough to have built trucks across the spectrum and I my opinion which really does not matter if he wants 13/4 headers then he needs to be ready to trim and modify, if not then he would stick with manifolds or the more common smaller headers that require little to no work, no pain no gain in this case.

[PowerdbyChevy79]

Hedman 69010 are a great mid length header..they're great for really low or bagged trucks..
if your wanting long tubes Hooker 2550 are pretty good.. they don't hang below the frame keeps everything tucked between the frame rails. Only con is you may have to clearance them depending on what frame mounts your using.. but its very minor

[MikeB]

Originally Posted by 71 super

Mike at the end of the day you are correct, however what is the end result that people are after with headers?

You're right. If the OP is looking for full-length headers with 1-3/4" tubes, then we probably shouldn't suggest 3/4 length or 1-5/8" tubes. When I was building a 327 for a 55 Chevy car, I was often asked, "Why would you want a 327, when a 350 is cheaper to build and makes more power?" So, I've been there, heard that!