Looking for a some what affordable alternative to some headers. I cant afford the t/a or bbb headers. Can I use some bbc headers and get the buick header flanges welded to them? If the bbc headers work do I need specific ones like for a nova, chevelle, truck, etc.. Wanting to know this so I know which ones will fit with minor hammer use and with the stock upper control arms. If these dont work what others could I use? I know the guys with the caddy 500 do this but not sure if it will work with the buick. Thanks in advanced.
I would try to look for some BBC headers that fit the '68 and later A-body or maybe '70 and later F-body. If your going to learn to weld, you will. Welding on used headers is ... keep track of your time ... got a lift or welder? I bet a $5 an hour, you will have paid for the headers. G-body BBC heads are $499 so no savings there, they clear the A-arms (Hooker #2241). I have seen some '68-72 A body BBC headers (for a BBC in a G-body) used but the lower A-arm mount had to be trimmed and the bolt turned around for more clearance. Same with the '70 up F-body headers, but these headers still run $150 used (I have been looking for some for my BBC '80 Malibu). I have seen some on here for $200 or so, thats worth it, or just run the manifolds, spend you money on an intake and carb or slicks or nitrous or suspension upgrades and bigger exhaust.
if you can find a good deal on sum you can make them fit. There are no set headers for are gbodys find the cheap bang cut and have them recoated. I have a set of stage 2 headers for my car i cut tubes out that didnt fit and had them re made to fit . Way cheaper than buying new!
Jeggs sells BBC headers for a BBC in a "G" body but these are not (Jeggs doesn't know these also fit a "G" body car) advertised as such. The part number is 520-2455 and they are competition headers not the super competition headers and the price is $165.99. The headers have 2" tubes and a 3 1/2" collector. I used them on my Regal when it had a BBC motor (before a BBB motor) and I never had to dent/crease anything to make them fit. I don't kinow if they will work on a BBB motor if you change the flange but here is another cheap set of headers if you want to try, good luck.
You might be able to fab something but starting with BBC headers would not be the best. The tubes are equal distances apart from each other at the head. The BBB uses one tube on each end and 2 tubes close together in the middle, more like a SBC header. Best bet is to keep your eye open for a used set.
