If you read my auto sig, you can see I have a very stock appearing car. For the average car show person, under the hood looks completely stock. So..... Since I drive my GSX (like it was meant to be) and have built a nice motor combo, I want to really take advantage of it by bolting on some Headers By the way, the car is a REAL GSX, original heads on it. I have the original carb, intake and disty stored. I have a 71Q-jet on it now and performer manifold painted so it looks stock to the normal eye. The block however is a 73 replacement block that after doing research was a warranty replacement in 73'. That's what I found by talking with an old owner. I'll keep the stock manifolds and all other hardware for any potential buyer later in life. Later meaning..... I have no plans to sell for a very, very, very long time. So in the mean time, I'm I want to take advantage of what I have: The debate Shorties vs Long Tubes and what to buy..... o No: My car is an AC Car and I want a bolt on set without having to make any modifications......... :Smarty: I would guess that shorties might be the best bet, just from what I've read here in the forum. So..... what set and from whom should I get? I will Jet Hot Coat them or sure. VinMan out......
Thought I was seeing double! For shorties, TA 2012CSH would do it. You seem worried that pulling the engine would be required for long tube headers; I can't remember for certain, but simply jacking the engine up a bit might be all you need to do. Maybe someone else can chime in. Devon
nothing beats a full set of headers.buy the way i've yet to see a good thread about headers on this site.
Just to let you know I was able to remove and re-install my full length headders with only jacking up the motor. It is a pain but do-able. You may need ( it really helps ) to remove the lower steering colum or at least detatch it from the steering box. Have fun with the A/C though. :laugh:
Well dammit man, ask away, or start a thread! My experience is a bit narrow, but I don't mind talking exhaust theory, either! Devon
shortys will be an easy install and will make a nice difference with the worry of long tube ground clearance
I have coated TA long tubes on my car. The real difference is that the full length headers help scavenge exhaust gasses. Shorties and ported iron manifolds do not do this. They may improve flow a little but nothing like a good set of full length headers. I also do not have any ground clearance issues with the TA's. You can still see them under the car though, I think they look super cool :TU: To me either you do it or you don't. I wouldn't bother with shorties, I would keep the all stock look and do ported iron manifolds, or go all the way with full length headers and an extra 20-30 hp.
Forget who it was,(Bob C?) but someone said that long tube headers had only a slightly larger power gain with on a street engine over shorties. For a street car, I'd go shorties just for ground clearance and the price. Edit: Ok it was actaully poooods who said you wouldn't feel the loss in a street car. http://v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=107190
iv'e already asked about different headers and comparisons between brands and primary tube diameter at different hp levels and engine rpm.got no response
I have hooker long tube headers, I purchased from the GSCA. My headers were put on, with the car on a lift. No problems with install, other than having to reroute the trans cooler lines, they were a bit too close to the headers. My headers also ride up nice and high. Hard to see them from underneath. I should also tell you that my car is a 1970 factory non air car. I think that the Wizard has a/c and headers, ask him what he thinks. Good luck. Regards, John.
I have T/A headers with AC. They fit but it takes lots of patience. I had to raise motor and remover several times to make dents to clear steering shaft, brake valve and frame. All headers are a little different. Test fot before coating or you will be sorry. Full length are better headers. For header gaskets use Felpro manifold gaskets they slip right in and never blow it. They come in three pieces for each side. Also get 12 point bolts and still be prepared for lots of swearing@#!*&!
I bought a full length set from Poston about 6 years ago and have not had any problems with installing or clearance. They fit good and the chrome is still good, which surprises me! (I bought them that way) I don't know who actually makes them, so it's possible they are the same from other sources too. I have had the motor in and out several times, and didn't have any problems getting them in. I do have A/C and power steering also. Brian