So they figured out my left manifold is eatten out on the inside. jt's732007-08-15 17:56:01

Like anything else, it depends on what you want out of your car...a street driver only? A street and strip car?

Shorty or block hugger headers will usually bolt up to your stock exhaust system. They will be better than your stock manifolds but not give the performance of long tube headers. A pretty fair compromise, though.

As far as bolting in without mods...some will, some won't. You need to research each brand you consider to find the best one for your needs. Personally, I like Sanderson headers...outstanding quality and extra thick flanges...much less likely to leak or allow the bolts to back out.

As far as I know you have to buy them in pairs, so replace them together to keep the scavenging and power making characteristics consistent. Two different designs with differing characteristics can make for drivability issues...one side makes more power at a particular rpm range than the other and you can't get it calibrated.

Thanks for the input.

OK so what the idea is is I guess there are headers from a place in Neb called speedway automotive. They make a ramshead manifold, (looks stock) but is really a header. jt's732007-08-15 19:46:05

I have the Speedway catalog, and about all you can do is go by their description. Headers can certainly be made of cast iron. It's essentially a close reproduction of the cast iron "rams head" exhaust manifolds Chevy used for years. They were considered very good performing factory manifolds.

Unless you're looking for max power, I don't think you would go wrong with them. I'm sure you would have an easier time running spark plug wires with them compared to regular headers as well as clearing steering components, etc.

If you buy them, get some good high temp paint and coat them with it before installing them.

Thanks again.

Does anyone know if the Sanderson manifolds have ball and socket connectors?

OK, so I went with the Sanderson shortie headers.

I haven't been able to find any info on Speedway Automotive, OR Truman exhaust systems!

I do know a lot of street rodders that use Sanderson headers, and they seem to be a pretty good deal.

Never heard of "ball and socket" connectors, tho...sounds like some sort of flexible joint?

The ball and socket Jt's refering to is on the end of the header which looks like a ball and socket.Instead if the triangle flange/clamp it is a ball and socket flange/clamp.I have them on my Headman headers. It makes the alignment of header to exhaust pipe easier.