header vs. exhaust manifold?

[spikeomatic]

header +'s :looks cool,performance,gas milage,sounds better header -'s :expensive,heat,exhaust routing,blown gaskets,starter issue.I know whenever you modify something there is always some work involved .haven't worked much on these inlines .for those of you that have done the header swap,would you do it again? is it worth the effort?I have the motor out already.and I need a new exhaust.all opinions welcome

 

[jahearne]

It's worth it. Yes, it is expensive but it should be the basis and starting point for all of our six cylinder modifications. The only good ones, truely good ones, new that you can buy are from classic inlines. Others sell new headers but they are poorly made. Buy quality, use locking bolts and good gaskets, you shouldn't have any leaks or blown gaskets.

 

[falcon1963]

It's worth it. Yes, it is expensive but it should be the basis and starting point for all of our six cylinder modifications. The only good ones, truely good ones, new that you can buy are from classic inlines. Others sell new headers but they are poorly made. Buy quality, use locking bolts and good gaskets, you should have any leaks or blown gaskets.

Wrong Hooker Headers has full length primary pipes 1 1/2" 38" long into dual 2 1/2 collectors.
They are quality & are made to fit the original cast iron head. The part # PART #: 6601-1HKR.
Gene runs them on his maverick. Falcon man.

 

[jahearne]

I know I sold them to him. But where can you find them new?

Does Clifford still sell quality headers?

 

[Explorer]

I know I sold them to him. But where can you find them new?

Does Clifford still sell quality headers?

Just my personal experience, but I don't consider Clifford's as quality headers.

 

[CZLN6]

Howdy Spike and all:

I've got a Clifford 250, single outlet header (Pre-CI) on my engine. It was installed in 2001 after being coated by HPC. It required minor modification near the starter, which it got prior to HPC. It has never leaked and stays tight. It looks cool but was the single largest expense in the build. Was it worth it? In the overall scope of things, I'd have to say yes. Can I tell it's there? Only when I open the hood. Will I do a header on my next project? Probably not, but if I do it will be the last item and likely a CI product. I will do other exhaust upgrades though. Also, I live in Idaho where climate and conditions really effect the life span of any exhaust system.

In general, a restrictive exhaust robs power and economy. A header alone won't solve the problem. The whole exhaust system must be analysed and dealt with in a thoughtful way.

IF you intend to see rpms above 5,000 regularly, you need a header exhaust system and a complete engine package. Other than that a header is a cool "Wow" factor. Speaking of cost, have you seen what the vendors are asking for a new cast iron exhaust manifold? Another "WOW!" IF you intend to upgrade to a performance cam and a better flowing head a header exhaust becomes more critical.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Adios, David

 

[echo1955]

I know I sold them to him. But where can you find them new?

Does Clifford still sell quality headers?

Hey jahearne I found these HOK-6601-1HKR
HERE at Summit Racing.

I don’t know how they do it but I get my order before it has time to clear my charge card…

 

[jahearne]

Awesome! Had no idea Summit had them. at $650- ...wow

 

[spikeomatic]

going to wait on the header.something I can do down the road.could stick that kind of loot into disc brakes first .I just sandblasted the manifold and gave it the eastwood treatment.didn't cost me a dime