I need headers 101

[hpcgmc]

I'm getting close to buying a new motor, and realized I need to figure out what headers to buy. I'm not a motor guy and never had headers, but from what I read, the issues seem to be ground clearance, ability to change spark plugs, ability to run plug wires without melting them, and maybe transmission or clutch clearance?

I will probably install a 350 crate motor. The truck will only be dropped 2/4 or at most 3/5, so ground clearance shouldn't be a major issue. I've got the stock 4 speed trans now, but expect to eventually replace this with a different 4 speed. Currently no power steering or power brakes, but expect to add these eventually.

Lastly, this is a low budget build, so I'm hoping to keep the cost down.

All ideas appreciated!

[chopnchaneled]

My 2 cents worth,
having chased loose header bolts, cracks etc. this last go around i installed
the factory cast iron manifolds and over two years had zero leaks.
of course i've gotten real lazy

[truckster]

Originally Posted by chopnchaneled

My 2 cents worth,
having chased loose header bolts, cracks etc. this last go around i installed
the factory cast iron manifolds and over two years had zero leaks.
of course i've gotten real lazy

I agree. I just acquired a set of rams horn manifolds and the headers are coming off as soon as the weather warms up. The headers were too loud in the cab and it seems as soon as you fix one leak another springs up.

[69GWC]

Dont cheap out on headers buy good name brand and buy some with THICK flanges so they dont warp and blow gaskets all the time. I myself will not buy headers that are not jet hot coated/ceramic coated or what ever they list them as.
I would buy good header bolts as well along with some good gaskets when you do it, IMO if you do this you wont have much or any trouble.
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[GRX]

Also agree. Only go with headers if you think your engine build will take full advantage of them.

[64fleetside]

Hard to beat Hookers-5/16" thick mounting flange. Haven't tightened mine in two years, daily driver. There are quality headers out there.

[Scott>72-GMC]

They make header bolts with a locking piece keeps them from backing out
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[Scott>72-GMC]

Stage 8 - Locking Header Bolt Kit - YouTube

Stage 8 header bolts.
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[truckster]

Originally Posted by Scott>72-GMC

They make header bolts with a locking piece keeps them from backing out

Yes, they do, and the thick flanges help. Also the expensive collector gaskets.

But I have a couple of other reasons for getting rid of my headers. First, they introduce a lot of noise into the truck. I want a nice exhaust note, but I don't need to be beaten with it. Second, I have to crawl under the truck and use an open-end wrench to change my #2 plug.

I'm not saying don't go with headers if that's really what you want. But you should really check the pros and cons first, and know that a basic crate 350 is not going to get much help from headers.

[Scott>72-GMC]

Understandable. I'm going for loud and electric cut outs so I
Can muffle it when I want. I understand both sides
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[jhwkns]

I had a small budget in 1997 when I first put my truck on the road. I bought a set of Flotech headers from Pep Boys. Fifteen years, and over 250,000 miles later they're holding up just fine. I wish I could get that kind of life out of all of my parts. There are a couple of things that have probably added to their life.

Corrosion isn't a problem here in the middle of the Mojave Desert, and the exhaust system has never put a strain on them. These are probably the two main reasons for failure.

Headers are definitely more prone to leak, but with a little effort will work quite well. If you re-torque the bolts after every heat cycle five or six times even paper gaskets are pretty reliable. I've had them last for a few years. I now use the aluminum ones. They're around four years old now. It always a good idea to check the bolts periodically to keep things tight.

I've never had a clearance problem with the long tube headers. It's tight by the clutch linkage, but it clears. With a mild drop ground clearance hasn't been an issue.

A high quality set of plug wires will outlast several sets of cheap ones. I have Taylor's. They're almost indestructible. Silicone wires and boots are the only type that will hold up to the heat associated with headers. There are two of mine where the boot lies right next to the header tube. It's barely made a mark on them. I've had them on there for around eight years of heavy use with no problems.

I think the wires were $99 when I bought them. Same as the headers.