390 Starter/Header clearance
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Senior User
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 395
Likes: 0
From: South Carolina
390 Starter/Header clearance
Installing brand new Hooker Comp headers on my 390 and the stock starter won't seem to fit no matter what I do. Headers in the way. Most of y'all seem to be running headers... just wondering what everyone was doing about the starter? Is it just my particular set of headers or is this a common problem? Also, is there a smaller starter that I can use for this 10.6:1CR 390?
Headers are #6903, Hooker spec for 65-76 F-100, 352-390.
Thanks.
Headers are #6903, Hooker spec for 65-76 F-100, 352-390.
Thanks.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,624
Likes: 8
From: Missouri
390 Starter/Header clearance
When ever I need to change my starter I have to drop the headers. You have to kinda install them at the same time. It takes a little time and patience. I can change my starter now in a couple hours easy. You will have to learn the process.
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
390 Starter/Header clearance
I'd reccomend some form of heat shield. And, if I was tearing into it, I'd probably splurge for one of the mini high torque starters. more power, less bulk and less likely to get cooked by the headers. But its' $150 vs. $30, so many folks won't spend the extra cash.
Post Fiend
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 8,238
Likes: 3
From: Oregon
390 Starter/Header clearance
My Stans are the first ones I've ever had that I don't need to drop the starter. I'm running one of those powermaster minis though so that helps. 98% of the combos you will need to drop your pipes. I would run a heat shield unless you have your pipes cermacoated. Mine are coated, I run without a shield and have had no problems.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 8,600
Likes: 4
From: Iowa
390 Starter/Header clearance
Yeah, Its a pain you know where, but they will fit. When I got mine, the instructions said, in big, capital, bold letters, "THEY WILL GO IN." I've found that it helps if you adjust the steering so you have the most clearance. Also, tie some dental floss on that screw on the top of the starter, because you will drop it. This way you can get it back, and not have to remove the starter again to fish the screw out. You'll see what I mean. It helps to have a helper to hold the starter while you get the header wedged in there. Good luck!
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Senior User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 315
Likes: 0
From: Clayton CA
390 Starter/Header clearance
One thing that I did that made the whole header/starter install easier was use studs instead of bolts for the headers. That way you can get your header gasket in place, hang the header on the studs, and fool with the starter bolts without having to hold the header; the studs allow you to swing the header in and out as needed. You can buy the studs at most hardware stores although they will be a bit pricey for a set of 16. If you're really flush you can spring for the ARP studs which are really sweet! Also, I've found that the top starter bolt will go in pretty painlessly if you use a long (10") 3/8" extension for the socket; the bolt will stay in the socket pretty securely while you fish it over the top of the starter. 
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Elder User
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 542
Likes: 0
From: Middleton, WI
390 Starter/Header clearance
I've had four different brands of headers, and 3 starters on my 390 in past 2 years. Results: Ford Powertrain Headers, and either stock NAPA starter or CVR aftermarket. Could not make the Tilton work no matter what with any of the headers. The FPA look like $1000. headers but were (gulp) only $600, (Yes get the Cerama Coat) and will allow starter replacement without as many hassles.
Junior User
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 92
Likes: 0
390 Starter/Header clearance
I had a set of either FlowTeck or Heddman and the starter just needed to be moved in certain directions to get on and off. After doing it once or twice, it wouldn't take but 5 minutes to take off.
However, I did have problems with the starter getting heat soaked. I'll look for a part number if I can find the receipt. I think they were $100 give or take $5 and the machine shop I spoke to said they were just fine.
Best of luck!
However, I did have problems with the starter getting heat soaked. I'll look for a part number if I can find the receipt. I think they were $100 give or take $5 and the machine shop I spoke to said they were just fine.
Best of luck!
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 5,130
Likes: 8
From: Brea CA
390 Starter/Header clearance
Originally posted by mlf72f250
Ford Powertrain makes headers for truck FE motors?
Ford Powertrain makes headers for truck FE motors?
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 21
From: Texas
390 Starter/Header clearance
Hey cowboy, I realize you are running an A0D, but I'll ask anyway. Do you think that the FPA headers will fit into a 69 F250, FE Engine, bendix power steering unit and C6 auto? I'm thinking about ordering their headers, but would like a vote of confidence on fitment.
Do you know what size primaries are on them? Not sure it was on their web site.
The last attempt at headers just resulted in headaches. I think there are subtle differences in these F250 trucks that some vendors don't comprehend. I.e., the position of the different power steering units or the tranny linkage.
Do you know what size primaries are on them? Not sure it was on their web site.
The last attempt at headers just resulted in headaches. I think there are subtle differences in these F250 trucks that some vendors don't comprehend. I.e., the position of the different power steering units or the tranny linkage.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 5,130
Likes: 8
From: Brea CA
390 Starter/Header clearance
That Bendix box can be a problem. My friend tried to use 406 shorties on his '69 but it hit the box, ended up using a shorty on the passenger side and a CJ on the driver side, kinda funky.
Barry
Barry
Last edited by BB; May 22, 2003 at 02:27 PM.