Headers or No Headers That is the Question - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

OldSkool71 · 09-07-2009, 01:58 AM

I would really like to do a whole new exhaust system starting with some short headers so I can do a nice 2 1/2 exhaust but how do I keep my original a/c bracket set up or do I stick with the stock exhaust manifolds and just have them step it up from there? Is there any short headers out there that work well and any suggestions on remounting your original a/c brackets? Any help would be appreciated.

thanks, Ron

**thelonerife** · 09-07-2009, 02:12 AM

use some round tubing spacers on the bolts for the headers.

70LonghornCST · 09-07-2009, 02:34 AM

You know, I went through the same thing that you are going through. I finally decided that I'm not going to run the quarter mile with my truck. I figure that with a set of flowmasters and stock exhaust manifolds, I will still get a respectable sound and keep the stock look of my engine compartment. I am going for 100% stock, though.
It's all about what you want. I know that many of our brothers here have the solution for the A/C bracket if you are set on headers.

Wootdog · 09-07-2009, 07:34 AM

As one that has headers on all of my old vehicles except the Pontiac, I would stay with the stock manifolds. Almost everyone you talk to has a problem with the headers leaking. Manifolds do not. If the various vehicles would have come with the manifolds when I bought them, they would still have them on. My two cents,
Kerry

OldSkool71 · 09-07-2009, 09:00 PM

Thanks for the posts fellas...im definately not set on the headers mine is the original 350 with no mods beside the pertronix upgrade(that is nice)...It is a daily driver so im leaning toward keeping the exhaust manifolds...the less modifications that have to be made the better. More time to enjoy the ride...

OldSkool71 · 09-07-2009, 09:03 PM

sorry guys just noticed I posted this in the wrong section...can it be moved to the message board section?

**70cst** · 09-07-2009, 09:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OldSkool71

sorry guys just noticed I posted this in the wrong section...can it be moved to the message board section?

Done....

Otsa580 · 09-07-2009, 10:38 PM

I like headers on other peoples rides but I've always kept the manifolds on all my stuff. They always seem to have problems with headers.

**70cst** · 09-07-2009, 10:55 PM

I had the same delima...I went with Tri Y headers initially...but when I took my truck in for a resto...I went back to stock manifolds. The main reason is the headers dropped the pipes too low below the frame. I sold the Try Y's and went back to the stock manifolds using Spintech mufflers connected into a 2 1/2" pipes.

OrangeCrush1970 · 09-07-2009, 11:08 PM

Run some 2.5" corvette manifolds. They repop them now and are only about $175 a pair.

texanidiot25 · 09-07-2009, 11:34 PM

Best of both worlds: http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Small-...olds,3823.html

YouTube - Speedway Motors Tru-Ram Exhaust...

Header flow, near stock apperance, and cast iron leak-proof-ness

If not, vette manifolds:
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/25-Inc...olds,9133.html

Longhorn Man · 09-07-2009, 11:59 PM

quality headers are trouble free... the hooker headers in my old GMC were less troublesome than the manifolds in my burb.
Go figure.

**special-K** · 09-08-2009, 10:31 AM

I`ve had more problems with manifolds.I think it`s more about the look,performance,and fitment of brackets to consider.I`m stuck on headers because that`s what we all did on our stuff when these things were new.I`m not sure about my`67 projest.I have early heads without mount holes,it will have Vintage Air,and the driver side alternator mount will be something custom either way.I may go with those tubular rams horns.

turp mcspray · 09-08-2009, 11:20 AM

I sold the Try Y's and went back to the stock manifolds using Spintech mufflers connected into a 2 1/2" pipes.[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

The guy that bought those tri-y headers got a SWEET deal!

cdowns · 09-08-2009, 11:22 AM

quality headers and quality gaskets make headers alot more fun// good manufactureers have adaptors for AC mounts

OldSkool71 · 09-08-2009, 08:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cdowns

quality headers and quality gaskets make headers alot more fun// good manufactureers have adaptors for AC mounts

Any you could mention?

vectorit · 09-08-2009, 10:58 PM

My vote is for the stock style manifolds.
My burb ran headers for most of it's life, and the first set were cheapo types and they were a PITA.
The last set I ran were Hooker Super Comps, and they were pretty trouble free as far as headers go. But still not as hassle free as stock manifolds.

**leddzepp** · 09-08-2009, 11:16 PM

I vote for stock manifolds. If you go with headers check out Thorley, or Doug Thorley, or Doug's. I don't know what he calls himself anymore after the divorce.

*highperf4x4* · 09-09-2009, 12:07 AM

You won't get any benefit out of a set of headers or 2.5" pipes unless you can flow a ton of air at high rpm. If your engine is stock they won't do anything for you at all.

You will get leaks eventually no matter what the quality of the headers are because they are steel. They expand and contract alot more than an iron manifold. Nothing you can do about it and at some point you'll be putting new gaskets in them.

However, an engine with headers will have a distinct sound to it. If that's all you're concerned with then put em on.

I'm running full length headers on the 350 I built for my 4x4 because it will flow massive air at about 6000rpm when I need it in the mud but my '72 with the 402bbc still has the iron manifolds. They both have 2.5" pipes although I didnt' really need them on the '72.

huero · 09-09-2009, 12:58 AM

I am going to use exhaust manifolds. I am officially done with headers. I just pulled off the set I had on my Nova.

**70cst** · 09-09-2009, 01:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by huero

I am going to use exhaust manifolds. I am officially done with headers. I just pulled off the set I had on my Nova.

Bingo...we have a winner!

OldSkool71 · 09-09-2009, 01:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by highperf4x4

You won't get any benefit out of a set of headers or 2.5" pipes unless you can flow a ton of air at high rpm. If your engine is stock they won't do anything for you at all.

You will get leaks eventually no matter what the quality of the headers are because they are steel. They expand and contract alot more than an iron manifold. Nothing you can do about it and at some point you'll be putting new gaskets in them.

However, an engine with headers will have a distinct sound to it. If that's all you're concerned with then put em on.

I'm running full length headers on the 350 I built for my 4x4 because it will flow massive air at about 6000rpm when I need it in the mud but my '72 with the 402bbc still has the iron manifolds. They both have 2.5" pipes although I didnt' really need them on the '72.

Very well put...im with you I don't think im gonna get much out of them except for the sound aspect at this point...and it is definately not worth the money or time for that alone...thank you sir...

gonzo6869 · 09-09-2009, 02:35 AM

I think it is up to your own personal preference. Myself, I have a set of Ceramic Coated Comp. Hookers. Love the sound, and the looks. As for any problems, I have none. Like said a couple of times before me, quality = problem free.

Either way, you have a classic C-10, you can't lose.

samwise68 · 09-09-2009, 12:19 PM

I took the rams horns off my truck and put on a set of used headers I got from TeeItUp. Loctited the header bolts, used cheap gaskets, and I haven't had a lick of problems. We checked the bolts after a couple heat cycles, tightened 'em again, and voila.

A decent sounding 307, breathing through good exhaust with a 2 barrel carb. haha.

-Sam.

ChevLoRay · 09-09-2009, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Longhorn Man

quality headers are trouble free... the hooker headers in my old GMC were less troublesome than the manifolds in my burb.
Go figure.

The Hookers on my truck were on there when I got it in '99 and never had any issues with them. I had the rest of the exhaust system redone with Flowmaster 40's and that was 8 years ago, still w/o any issues.

As for stock manifolds, I have 2 or 3 sets of ram's horn manifolds that were given to me. None of them are the 300-horse manifolds, though.

09-07-2009, 01:58 AM	#1
OldSkool71 C/10 CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Lakewood, CA Posts: 993	Headers or No Headers That is the Question I would really like to do a whole new exhaust system starting with some short headers so I can do a nice 2 1/2 exhaust but how do I keep my original a/c bracket set up or do I stick with the stock exhaust manifolds and just have them step it up from there? Is there any short headers out there that work well and any suggestions on remounting your original a/c brackets? Any help would be appreciated. thanks, Ron __________________ -Ron-

09-07-2009, 02:12 AM	#2
thelonerife Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Clarksville TN 37043 Posts: 8,702	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question use some round tubing spacers on the bolts for the headers. __________________ Chuck 68swb Fleetside build ''Choncho'' http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=374892 My trailer redo http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...69#post5893869 Chuy my 59 bug http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=653798 Putnam 87 GMC Shop truck http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=707687

09-07-2009, 02:34 AM	#3
70LonghornCST Moderator Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Modesto, CA Posts: 5,775	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question You know, I went through the same thing that you are going through. I finally decided that I'm not going to run the quarter mile with my truck. I figure that with a set of flowmasters and stock exhaust manifolds, I will still get a respectable sound and keep the stock look of my engine compartment. I am going for 100% stock, though. It's all about what you want. I know that many of our brothers here have the solution for the A/C bracket if you are set on headers. __________________ 2018 Chevy Crew Cab 2006 Impala SS 1965 Plymouth Sport Fury 1970 Chevy Longhorn Bucket Seats Shoulder Belts Front Tow Hooks Factory Air Factory Speedwarning, Tach & Vaccum Factory Tilt CST Package AM/FM Radio Bumper Guards Richard 70 Longhorn CST Build Adding an AM/FM Decal

09-07-2009, 07:34 AM	#4
Wootdog Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Virginia Beach, Va, USA Posts: 1,677	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question As one that has headers on all of my old vehicles except the Pontiac, I would stay with the stock manifolds. Almost everyone you talk to has a problem with the headers leaking. Manifolds do not. If the various vehicles would have come with the manifolds when I bought them, they would still have them on. My two cents, Kerry __________________ 1969 Chevelle 1990 IROC Z Convertible 2002 Silverado LT

09-07-2009, 09:00 PM	#5
OldSkool71 C/10 CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Lakewood, CA Posts: 993	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question Thanks for the posts fellas...im definately not set on the headers mine is the original 350 with no mods beside the pertronix upgrade(that is nice)...It is a daily driver so im leaning toward keeping the exhaust manifolds...the less modifications that have to be made the better. More time to enjoy the ride... __________________ -Ron-

09-07-2009, 09:03 PM	#6
OldSkool71 C/10 CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Lakewood, CA Posts: 993	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question sorry guys just noticed I posted this in the wrong section...can it be moved to the message board section? __________________ -Ron-

09-07-2009, 10:38 PM	#8
Otsa580 I Love Rusty Chevys Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 617	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I like headers on other peoples rides but I've always kept the manifolds on all my stuff. They always seem to have problems with headers. __________________ 1969 K5 Blazer 1997 1500 Silverado Ext Cab Z71 2010 1500 Silverado Ext Cab Z71

09-07-2009, 10:55 PM	#9
70cst Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: New Madison, Ohio Posts: 21,370	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I had the same delima...I went with Tri Y headers initially...but when I took my truck in for a resto...I went back to stock manifolds. The main reason is the headers dropped the pipes too low below the frame. I sold the Try Y's and went back to the stock manifolds using Spintech mufflers connected into a 2 1/2" pipes. __________________ A husband can be right...or...A husband can be happy. 67-72 Chevy and GMC Trucks...The Classic Truck for the Classic Folk. 1970 CST Two tone green, 402BB, 400 Automatic, Tach, Buckets, AC, AM-FM, Tilt, GM CB, GM 8 Tract, LWB, etc JOHN 17:3...The better side of "LIFE" Remember: Everyday is a good day...Some are just gooder! Last edited by 70cst; 09-10-2009 at 10:31 PM.

09-07-2009, 11:08 PM	#10
OrangeCrush1970 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Smyrna, GA Posts: 709	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question Run some 2.5" corvette manifolds. They repop them now and are only about $175 a pair. __________________ *Rottenwood Garage* 1970...71...72 C1500 aka Orange aka Sideshow Bob 540 BB Straub Roller Cam, AFR Magnums, XP 950, TKO 600 2 Tons of Fun

09-07-2009, 11:59 PM	#12
Longhorn Man its all about the +6 inches Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Hilliard Ohio Posts: 2,693	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question quality headers are trouble free... the hooker headers in my old GMC were less troublesome than the manifolds in my burb. Go figure.

09-08-2009, 10:31 AM	#13
special-K Special Order Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Mt Airy, MD Posts: 85,858	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I`ve had more problems with manifolds.I think it`s more about the look,performance,and fitment of brackets to consider.I`m stuck on headers because that`s what we all did on our stuff when these things were new.I`m not sure about my`67 projest.I have early heads without mount holes,it will have Vintage Air,and the driver side alternator mount will be something custom either way.I may go with those tubular rams horns. __________________ "BUILDING A BETTER WAY TO SERVE THE USA"......67/72......"The New Breed" GMC '67 C1500 Wideside Super Custom SWB: 327/M22/3.42 posi.........."The '67" (project) GMC '72 K2500 Wideside Sierra Custom Camper: 350/TH350/4.10 Power-Lok..."The '72" (rolling) Tim "Don't call me a redneck. I'm a rough cut country gentleman" R.I.P. ~ East Side Low Life ~ El Jay ~ 72BLUZ ~ Fasteddie69 ~ Ron586 ~ 67ChevyRedneck ~ Grumpy Old Man ~

09-08-2009, 11:20 AM	#14
turp mcspray Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: Rapid City South Dakota Posts: 2,359	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I sold the Try Y's and went back to the stock manifolds using Spintech mufflers connected into a 2 1/2" pipes.[/COLOR][/QUOTE] The guy that bought those tri-y headers got a SWEET deal! __________________ Turp Mcspray New life for an old 2wd, farm blazer http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=505987 My Blazer build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=342299

09-08-2009, 11:22 AM	#15
cdowns Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: daytonabeach Posts: 22,956	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question quality headers and quality gaskets make headers alot more fun// good manufactureers have adaptors for AC mounts __________________ 71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY

09-08-2009, 10:58 PM	#17
vectorit What? Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Southern California Posts: 7,617	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question My vote is for the stock style manifolds. My burb ran headers for most of it's life, and the first set were cheapo types and they were a PITA. The last set I ran were Hooker Super Comps, and they were pretty trouble free as far as headers go. But still not as hassle free as stock manifolds. __________________ Chris 1968 K20 Suburban 1972 K10 LWB PU

09-08-2009, 11:16 PM	#18
leddzepp Moderator Join Date: May 2007 Location: Southern Cal Posts: 20,008	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I vote for stock manifolds. If you go with headers check out Thorley, or Doug Thorley, or Doug's. I don't know what he calls himself anymore after the divorce. __________________ 1972 C/10 Cheyenne Super SWB. Restored, loaded, slammed. 1968 C/10 50th Anniversary LWB. Unrestored, stock, daily driver/work truck. RIP ElJay RIP 67ChevyRedneck RIP Grumpy Old Man



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09-09-2009, 12:07 AM	#19
highperf4x4 Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Oklahoma City Posts: 4,709	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question You won't get any benefit out of a set of headers or 2.5" pipes unless you can flow a ton of air at high rpm. If your engine is stock they won't do anything for you at all. You will get leaks eventually no matter what the quality of the headers are because they are steel. They expand and contract alot more than an iron manifold. Nothing you can do about it and at some point you'll be putting new gaskets in them. However, an engine with headers will have a distinct sound to it. If that's all you're concerned with then put em on. I'm running full length headers on the 350 I built for my 4x4 because it will flow massive air at about 6000rpm when I need it in the mud but my '72 with the 402bbc still has the iron manifolds. They both have 2.5" pipes although I didnt' really need them on the '72.

09-09-2009, 12:58 AM	#20
huero 1969 Short, Fleet, and Beat Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Long Beach, Ca. Posts: 867	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I am going to use exhaust manifolds. I am officially done with headers. I just pulled off the set I had on my Nova.

09-09-2009, 02:35 AM	#23
gonzo6869 Cops, ha, catch me if you can! Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Santa Barbara, CA. Posts: 271	Re: Headers or No Headers That is the Question I think it is up to your own personal preference. Myself, I have a set of Ceramic Coated Comp. Hookers. Love the sound, and the looks. As for any problems, I have none. Like said a couple of times before me, quality = problem free. Either way, you have a classic C-10, you can't lose.

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