G uys,

Have installed 2003 LS/LQ4 in our '56. What has anyone used for headers other than the original cast headers. Tried "shorty style" , clearance problem with under floor brake booster and steering . We're looking at "hugger style". Any help, photos, recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

 

I installed 2003 LS6 in my 48 F1.I bought shorty headers from Summit
for my truck.Steering is going to be a little tight but I am pretty sure
it will work(fingers crossed).I will try to post a pic as soon as I can.

 

Thanks for the speedy reply. We bought Hooker Shorty Headers from Summitt which had the 3" collector pipe welded in. Have just returned them. As stated , we could not figure out how to get past the Brake Booster, Pedal assembly not to mention where the Steering Column came into play.

Looking forward to your photos.

 

Hi Bob,
I know you specifically stated headers here..... But valuable info may surface for others, so I will share what I've learned / experienced.

In talking to Ken Wolkens (LS harness / conversion specialist), he suggested Corvette C6 LS3 manifolds worked on his jeep, which had 28" between the frame rails. My '51 has 27 1/4" between the rails. He said I should have 1" to spare on each side.

I will mock up my engine / trans / exhaust soon. Just today received my 6L80e back from conversion to 2WD.

*I anticipate some head scratching.*

I did buy the C6 / LS3 manifolds from ebay and should arrive soon. I also run the factory booster and brake master.

I just removed a 390 with C-6 that had headers installed. That cleared my steering shaft (barely) and had absolutely no issues with the brake master / booster.

Any chance you can reposition the engine a bit on the mounts for more clearance? Or offset to one side just a bit?

My setup may be somewhat unique. I have an old heidt's crossmember and mustang II independent suspension upfront.

Ken also mentioned trying the Cadillac CTS-V manifolds, which fit tight to the block, but with more of a rear exit. Maybe they make a bolt-in header for that application that would work?

Hope this helps someone and we can answer Bob's questions.

Doug

 

Hey Bob,
Here's an article about installing CTS-V headers with many pictures. They show some pretty tight quarters, including working around the steering shaft.
2009 Cadilliac Cts V Bolt Ons Fitting Tubes Photo 23

Maybe it'd be worth trying those headers?
Here's one picture: http://www.gmhightechperformance.com.../photo_26.html
And another where you can see the tight spacing between head, steering shaft and engine bay wall: http://www.gmhightechperformance.com.../photo_18.html

Doug

 

Very nice,we'll look into this set up

 

We're going to take a hard look at this,very clean

 

Hi Bob,
Did you make some headway here?

I will receive my Corvette C6 manifolds tomorrow to trial fit. I bought the LS motor mounts from Scottshotrods.com http://www.scottshotrods.com/Images/...r-mount_LG.jpg .

Justin, the owner there didn't know if the C6 manifolds would clear his mounts. He said he always uses headers.

cheers,

Doug

 

We bit the bullet and ordered a set of SBC TIGHT FIT HEADERS from Speedway, should be here late this week, once we have them installed we'll get a few shots and send them to you.

Good buildin'

 

For clarification: are these LS version or SBC?
Thank you - I will update.

Doug

 

Doug,

After talking with TECH guys @ Sanderson, Holley, Hedman and Speedway's staff, I believe these are for our LS/LQ4 6.0L engine, if it is not we are going to be very upset not to mention the added expense along with time.

We'll send a note along with photos once there are installed.

Brake Booster Installed, Brake Pedal Clearance looks ok right now, steering not so sure. Can't wait for those headers !!

 

Any follow up to this? I am getting ready to do an lq4 in my 56 and would love to see mounting and header combos.

 

sent you a PM.

Doug
'51 F1
L92 / 6L80

 

thanks doug

 

Don't know exactly Bob's final configuration. However on my '51, I used C6 Corvette (LS3) manifolds. They are very narrow and just barely fit between my frame rails. I found them on ebay for about $100 shipped. I then had them ceramic coated maybe for another $100.

I used the stock heat shields and extended it on one side to sit between the motor mount and the manifold.

In stock form, these are good for 480 HP, so I figured they'd be fine for me. (my engine is 6.2L 403HP - L92.
You can buy the flanges to build your exhaust from ebay. Forget the guy's name. About $50 for 1/2" thick flanges. I bought those. Then run the OEM LS3 gasket and you'll have no leaks.

One more note, I'm pretty sure my '51 frame is narrower than next generation. If I remember properly, 27" in between upfront.

Doug