header recomendation
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
header recomendation
Not impressed with my Dynomax. Bad fitment problems with 69 F250, 390, C6 and Bendix steering box. I also have a hard time sealing them at the heads.
The guys here seem to have some success with some of the cheaper brands, but I'll be spending the $$ to get a good set the next time I go shopping for headers.
The guys here seem to have some success with some of the cheaper brands, but I'll be spending the $$ to get a good set the next time I go shopping for headers.
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 227
Likes: 0
From: Kent, WA
header recomendation
I don't like my Headmans. The flanges were too small and leaked, so I had to build them up and grind them flat. They are also really thin and bend when you tighten them down the first time. So if you ever take them off you have to beat the flange back out straight again. It's a real pain. I would definately spend the extra money on a quality header with a thick flange that won't bend.
Junior User
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 91
Likes: 1
From: Western PA
header recomendation
I have flowtechs on my truck right now and i hate them with a passion i have never got the to seal up in 2 years. and where the slip together i had to weldthem up to stop leaks. I have not seen L&L headers for FE engines but i just bought a set of headman new off ebay for 46 dollars. i would recommend them.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
Likes: 8
From: Missouri
header recomendation
I love my flowtechs. They don't have a slip joint. You must have a different model. Mine fit good and have never leaked. Use the paper gaskets they give you with the headers. These things are great!
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Senior User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 112
Likes: 1
header recomendation
I have Doug Thorley's on mine and have never had a problem or had to change a gasket. Been running them for about 5 years.
One drawback is if you are trying to save weight, They are heavy. 14 Gauge tubes and 3/8" head plates. Don't leak though!
One drawback is if you are trying to save weight, They are heavy. 14 Gauge tubes and 3/8" head plates. Don't leak though!
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 8,600
Likes: 4
From: Iowa
header recomendation
I have hedman's on mine, and couldnt be happier with 'em. Just make sure you get the bolts good and tight the first time, and I would recommend aluminum collector gaskets to prevent blowout. Have fun! 
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 3,775
Likes: 2
From: Conway Arkansas
header recomendation
I ordered a set of DynoMax headers for my 66 390 C6 and I'll let you know how they are... I paid 108.99 for them outta jegs... Well worth the money I think. And they said they'd work w/ power steering.
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 451
Likes: 0
From: Balfour
header recomendation
I agree with William here, I must say Ive never had hedders first too though, but I'll let her rip. I was looking into hedders and found that I could pay upto 700 dollars for a 6-9hp gain, thats the manufactures claim on a 454 cheb plus I'll loose some lowend.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 3,775
Likes: 2
From: Conway Arkansas
header recomendation
It depends on the motor also...
on a 390 the manifolds suck... In my opinion.
If your satisfied with what you got now, I wouldnt buy headers until your manifolds are shot (rusted thru or whatever)
Then I would buy headers (even small ones) as they are usually cheaper than stock manifolds.
I dont have headers on my chebby, but Im putting them on my ford... as I hated the stock manifols on the 390
on a 390 the manifolds suck... In my opinion.
If your satisfied with what you got now, I wouldnt buy headers until your manifolds are shot (rusted thru or whatever)
Then I would buy headers (even small ones) as they are usually cheaper than stock manifolds.
I dont have headers on my chebby, but Im putting them on my ford... as I hated the stock manifols on the 390
Elder User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 542
Likes: 0
From: Middleton, WI
header recomendation
You should do a search on this topic and even my user name- I may have the record, I just recently went through Three sets to get an acceptable set - but even then I'm still fighting them a little. I have 390 with E-Brok Heads in 67 2wd.
I have a set of Dyno Max that we beat up (so I can't return) to make clear the steering gear and then would never seal due to bad port match, tried and returned Sandersons(another bad port match), finally went with Ford Powertrain Applications (FPA) great port match, passenger side was very close to frame(but allows for starter replacement w/o removing header), and still working on keeping bolts tightened. But in spite of this, Headers are part of mix if going for something besides stock. You really should research and make sure of Port Match before using and the Cerama Coat is worth far more in starter savings and reduced engine room temp. Bottom Line: It's your truck, ( your baby ) so don't short change it.
I have a set of Dyno Max that we beat up (so I can't return) to make clear the steering gear and then would never seal due to bad port match, tried and returned Sandersons(another bad port match), finally went with Ford Powertrain Applications (FPA) great port match, passenger side was very close to frame(but allows for starter replacement w/o removing header), and still working on keeping bolts tightened. But in spite of this, Headers are part of mix if going for something besides stock. You really should research and make sure of Port Match before using and the Cerama Coat is worth far more in starter savings and reduced engine room temp. Bottom Line: It's your truck, ( your baby ) so don't short change it.