HEADERS

[XLT]

What are the problems with headers?

[lee_ford]

Header problems:
1. Higher engine compartment heat and noise unless you wrap them in insulation.
2. Better fuel mileage can be a problem if you are looking at a work truck and need tax write offs.
3. More power if you have a lead foot and are prone to tickets.

If you are asking about problems installing them. It depends on the motor. More info would be helpful.

[XLT]

I have a 390 stroker in my '71. The exaust system is coming up soon. I was told that there is a problem with headers because they are prone to rust.
I don't need a tax deduction.

[lee_ford]

I was told that there is a problem with headers because they are prone to rust.

Most new headers are made of a lot thicker metal than the old days. Years ago I knew people who would run headers with glass packs and short pipes. When they shut down the engine at night the cold air would condense inside the headers and they always rusted quickly.

This is why there is a market for ceramic coated headers. They will not rust.

All the other headers should be coated with high temp paint BEFORE you install them.

Here is an idea:
Spray the outside your color choice. Get another quart of any color high temp paint. Dilute the paint (75/25 or 66/33) with thinner so it will flow easy. Seal up the engine side with maybe some duct tape & plastic wrap and a header cap with gasket on the collector. Pour the mixture in and shake. Be sure to rotate the header so as to coat the inside of all the tubes. Use the collector to shift the paint from one tube to the next. Just like shake and bake. Just give the paint on the inside plenty of time to cure or you will be shooting flames from the thinner fumes.

[sport71]

Put the headers, the only problem is the starter having a tight fit, and put a heat shield on it.
DON'T BUY CHEEP HEADERS, YOU WILL ONLY GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR...






for the noise, the noise comes out the tail pipe, not in the engine bay. For the heat, I laid down some deadener. Other than that get some GOOD locking header bolts and gaskets...

[lee_ford]

...for the noise, the noise comes out the tail pipe, not in the engine bay.

Not to be picky but, if you ever hear a car with headers and QUIET mufflers, you WILL hear the headers. You can also hear this sound inside the cab if it is not insulated well. I learned this street racing back in the 60s. My buddy put large quiet Caddy mufflers on a really hot motor to fool the competition. It is a very distinct sound and one you will not forget. I think I like that sound better than a load exhaust.

[XLT]

I there such a thing as stainless headers?

[lee_ford]

YES!!!!

[XLT]

Now you are getting my attention Where!

[lee_ford]

Here... 16 or 14 gauge,

http://www.stans-headers.com/ford_headers.htm

If you do not like Tri-Ys and want a four tube and for a little more money, these guys will make you whatever you want.
http://www.stainlessheaders.com/index.aspx
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYYV5uVcdiU

Edit: If memory serves me correct, the Tri-Y headers are good for torque.

[XLT]

WOW

[tybob81]

If you have to save up for a little longer do it!! It sucks having a leaky collector or flange to always mess with.