Hi guys!
I've been really busy, so I haven't been on the forum in a few months.

So, I'm now ready to order the new exhaust for my '81 and I really want to go with the Hooker 4-into-1 sidepipe headers.  Just one catch that I'm hoping you help with:

I installed Edelbrock E-Tec heads, which supposedly have exhaust ports .2" higher on the head.  So, the headers would be sitting almost 1/4 inch higher in the engine compartment.  I am guessing that will not cause clearance issues in most spots, but I'm really concerned that they will not drop down low enough to clear the frame rails and still have enough clearance for when the engine rocks a little.

So, if you guys with the Hooker sidepipes could do me a favor, I would sure appreciate it if you could take a look, measurement, maybe even a picture and post back and let me know how much vertical clearance you have from the frame to the tubes, that would be fantastic. Please check both sides.  I figure if you guys tell me 1/2 inch or more is the closest the pipes get to the frame rail (like you can get your fingers in between there, I'm going for it.  However, the tech guy at Hooker said I'd probably have clearance problems.  I'm hoping he was just being conservative ;-)

Thanks!

Thanks John.  Actually, your post doesn't sound as bad to me as you might think.  My primary concern was the frame.  I figure I could alway take a little thickness out of my rear tranny mount/cushion if I had too.  My first try would probably be to slide in the sidepipes, pull down on them, THEN drill the side mounting holes, if that get enough door clearence.  Gee, I'm starting to think this might be do-able!  I plan to remove the old exhaust tomorrow, and I'll probably order the sidepipes first thing next week.
Anyone else have concerns or suggestions?

You don't want to start moving the trans mount, or altering the height of it. If you do, you'll change the geometry of the driveline, and it may start a vibration that you didn't have before....just a little something to think aboot...

once you get the tube mounted you can pull down on the brackets alittle  so you can get some more door clearance.  didn`t affect the appearance or function at all on my car.

Got the old exhaust off Sunday and took measurements vs. my factory heads.  It appears the exhaust port (and bolt holes) are really only 1/8" higher than factory, so I don't think I'll have any problem I can't overcome.  Order the pipes and Spiral Turbo Baffles yesterday.  From the sound clips and everyone's recommendations, those baffles sound great.  I can't wait!
Thanks for all your ideas and information!
This is the last major addition before I declare my year old "hop-up and clean-up project" complete (or as complete as such a thing can be ;-)  so, I'll get some pics posted as soon as the pipes are on.
Thanks again!

Great - can't wait to see the pictures!

Please post your results when all the parts are in and installed.