Topic: Headers & exhaust system
in Forum: C3 Fuel, Emission Control, and Exhaust Systems
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Former Member
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West Bend, WI - USA
Joined: 3/18/2010
Posts: 46
Vette(s): 1985 silver coupe & 1975 red coupe
I need some advice...AGAIN! I am putting a new GM 350CI 330 HP crate motor in my '75. Don't know much about headers, etc. What brand should I go with and what about long tube vs short tube types? Also, is it possibe to get the rest of the exhaust system in a kit of some type and just bolt it on? Any help you guys can give me would be great!!!! Darrell
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I have always been fond of Hooker Headers. I think they have a great product....as for the rest of the system, what I did was order new tail pipes and mufflers of your choice from Corvette Central and took them down the road to my muffler guy and he put them on and made the connection to the headers which involved cutting off some of the pipe and welding on the connections. He only charged me $100.00.
Former Member
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Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
A lot depends on what you're looking for out of a set of headers. Long tube tuned headers give better higher rpm power, but at the expense of ground clearance and possible installation issues...steering box and inner fenders. Tri-Y headers are known for torque production. Block hugger headers kind of split the difference and have the fewest installation issues and can usually connect to factory type pipes. You need to decide what you're looking for performance-wise then find the headers that best fit those needs.
That GM 350HO is a fine engine...I have it in one of my cars (not a Vette). I have Sanderson block hugger headers on it and am very satisfied.
Regardless of the headers you end up with, spend the extra and get them coated...ceramic, Jet Hot or similar. It will pay off in longer life, better looks and far less grief.
After a lot of brain picking. I went with the Sanderson block huggers. The up side is that they have a patented gasketless install. Very little modification to the packaged exhaust system I also purchased. Ceramic coating cuts down on the heat and also keeps them from rusting, so that you keep a good clean appearance. They did make for a little snugness when it came to sparkplug installation , but so far I am very happy with their product.
Former Member
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Mounds View, MN - USA
Joined: 5/24/2007
Posts: 1031
Vette(s): 70 LT1 coupe, 69 350 HP coupe, 69 390HP 427 coupe, 71 LS5 convert, 85 coupe, 93 coupe
Long tube headers of the proper (not too large) diameter actually increase low end torque, which is what you want in a street driven car. We carry a heavy aluminized original exhaust system. We have sold quite a few to people who have them adapted to their new headers. They are available in 2" or 2 1/2" pipes, and lower restriction mufflers, all for $389.00. Even though your car came single exhaust, the crossmember has the openings for a true dual system.
Larry
Larry

Moderator
Moses Lake, WA - USA
Joined: 4/16/2005
Posts: 2134
Vette(s): 1976 L48 4-spd, Mahogany Metalic exterior, Buckskin interior 350ci/350hp, 3rd owner, fiberglass spring, 255/50-16's Torq-Thrust II
I am running Hooker Headers that are ceramic coated. They have been great, only you need to watch your ground clearance. The flange hangs down a little. Been very happy with them so far.
in Forum: C3 Fuel, Emission Control, and Exhaust Systems
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