exhaust manifolds

[rustycars63]

What is the best manifolds to run with 5.3 engine for clearance for steering in 1949 chevy pick-up truck.

[mongocanfly]

I think the most compact ones are LS3 or tbss manifolds.....
But it's likely you may have steering clearance issues....

[rustycars63]

I have the cast iron trailblazer ones they do not clear the frame rails . Thinking the cast iron knock off of Hooker cast iron headers.

[tbrown5079]

I used 2001 camaro manifolds on my 56 and they fit in the frame rails. El camino subframe. Tbrown

[rustycars63]

Any comments from someone with 49-53 5.3 install.

[FarmerSid]

I have Hooker cast manifolds on my 5.3 in a 52 truck with stock frame and clear fine. The passenger side is tighter to frame because of starter. I tried 2010 camaro manifolds and too wide. I even milled the flange a bit to tuck them in a bit closer and still too wide. Didn't want to mill anymore off the flange in fear of making the flange too thin. Those manifolds are collecting dust now. I may scalop the frame on the passenger side to give more clearance as the exhaust pipe is about 3/4" from the frame and afraid of the heat ruining the paint.

I am also running a early 70's GM van column. The u-joint on the end of the column that goes from splines to DD down to rack is about 1" from the headers and 1" from the inner fender.


Hope this helps.

[rustycars63]

Thanks this is information i was looking for my 49 has mustang 2 front end. Steering will be trouble .

[FarmerSid]

Pictures will help us help you. My setup is totally different than yours