Big block header decision time... help!
 

Getting close to think about headers so I thought I would kick some options out to see who has tried these. What I am building is a '67 SWB that will be lowered 4/6 or maybe 5/7 so I need some ground clearance. I plan on making a custom trans crossmember and will route my own exhaust. I mistakenly bought a set of std heddman headers for this truck only to hear you guys all say they don't have enough ground clearance. So my options seem to be (1) some type of pass car long tube header that has higher collector exit (chevelle, camaro) or (2) use a shorty header that won't maximize my 500hp big block. Has anyone used a mid length header on a big block? I see the small block Chevelle mids work but don't recall seeing anyone use the big block ones. Anyone use full long tube Chevelle big block headers. I know they would interfere with a stock trans crossmember but I can fab it however I wish. Any other ideas guys?
Thanks,
Scott

I have the Sanderson 3/4 length Chevelle headers on my big block & they exit above the frame rails. They are a compromise for ground clearance though as my truck is extremely low & nothing can sit below the frame-rails. They have 1 7/8" primary pipe diameter.

I saw a truck @ the GoodGuys show (Ft.Worth, TX) last week & he was running Sanderson headers for an early Camaro. The collectors were about .5 ~ 1" below the bottom of the frame which isn't too bad for a full length header. I looked for a P/N but couldn't find one to confirm the exact application they were intended for.

There's always custom built headers too. Pricy, but most things related to big blocks are :lol: .

Custom headers...
 

Been there, done that! Lots of work. My first attempt was for a pro street car I built. Start with a box of bends and lots of free time. Not exactly equal length, but an experience to do. I made the whole exhaust from the engine plates back, including mufflers!
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y50...ders-bends.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y50...eaders-jig.jpg
http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y50...aders-done.jpg

Nice work!

If you're not wanting to undertake something as involved as scratch built but want full length, I would look into those early Camaro headers from Sanderson.

IMHO... Doug Thorley Tri-Y's are the way to go.. I have used them on both 2WD's and 4X4's.. neither go down past the frame and are extremely efficient and work with the Big Block rpm curve.. I have two sets right now.. one on my Suburban and the other on my 68 GMC the GMC set have been on it for 15 year and they are still in great shape.. heres a link that tells all about the design..
Tri-Y design

I am looking into buying a set of headdrs for my 72 2wd with a 454 do any of you guys have a part # or model year to order??? Thanks Luke.