The F2/F3 transmission cross member is entirely different than a F1. It would require a different header to clear the F2/F3 cross member.

 

The header ends more than a foot in front of the crossmember, basically at the rear face of the block. As someone mentioned, it's the header extension piece that needs to be different to clear the crossmember.

 

Ross is right. The headers are not the problem. Reds Headers fit an F2/F3 just fine even with the Toyota P/S box. It is the intermediate pipes that have a problem getting around the crossmember.


Exit out of the header is just fine. Tighter on the left side.


Exit on the right side is much straighter and less complex.


In plan view everything fit fine.


Fit fine in plan view on the left also.


But the problem comes in clearing the larger F2 cross member.


Problem on both sides.

These intermediates were from Reds Headers. The first set would not fit at all so he sent me a second set. With those I could get adequate clearance at all points but as you can see the fit around the crossmember was awkward. I believe that if I had them done locally they would have fit better.

So Reds Headers fit well and I really don't think that the intermediate pipe is an issue and could have been worked out with a little additional bending. Of course all this changed when I decided to go with an 4R70W transmission.

 

When I call Reds Headers they say that I need a F2/F3 header and they do not have any in stock. When they make some, I can get one. However they have no date when they will make one. So I am stuck and it is what I need so I can start the truck.

 

Get a set of F1 headers and have a local muffler shop fab up from there. You'll be on the road in no time.

I heard on another forum that Red's main welder quit on them about 6 months ago, and I heard they couldn't find another (I suspect it had to do with the $$ they were willing to pay). They must have gotten another or they wouldn't have any product.

 

You might want call and ask for Jim Davis. He was most helpful when I bought mine. Tell him that you are on FTE and that several of us recommended his product. I assume that you wanted the chrome metallic ceramic coating?

'48-'52 PU Header F1, F2, F3, F5 [3130] - $295.00 : Red's Headers, Speed Equipment For Old Fords

 

I decided to have the restotation shop doing my work to build me a left header. They bought a flathead set from Speedway and modified the left header to clear the Toyota steering pump. It is getting coated and will be installed when it gets coated" I will post a picture when it is installed. With that done I can have the engine started.