I've never run headers on any engine before, but the ones on my '53 seem like they are pretty darn hot. I've decided to build some heat shields around some of the "vitals" as I don't want a catostrophic melt down. I initially started/broke-in this engine when it was the afternoon (awhile back) and didn't really notice just how hot the headers were. I fired it up at night and could toast marshmallows by the header glow. I quickly knew I was running lean. I ordered a calibration kit for my carb and richened it up. This helped tremendously, as it really cooled it down. Now, I have just the slightest tinge of red at the collecters, not so much the tubes anymore (around 1800-2000 rpm and stationary). A little more fiddling with the carb and timing and I think I can bring it in. It's a 410 with Sanderson headers, Weiand 8010? intake and Edelbrock 600 cfm carb.

So, will there be absolutely no glow when the engine is just stationary and say revving to 2000 rpm, or can/will they get a little red? I wonder if the "ram" air from rolling down the road will help cool as well???

 

Airflow while driving is a huge part of cooling the headers. A little red is normal, especially when not rolling (no airflow). As soon as you drive it, the red usually goes away.

Being at the collectors is normal, considering thats where all the exhaust gasses on that bank will merge, making for a pretty hot place. Once again, air flow will take care of that.

 

It sounds like your timing is off. Retarded timing will contribute to excess heat in the exhaust.

Try advancing your timing.

 

When I put headers on my van, I was very close to the starter. So I got one of these ( http://www.autobarn.net/stheshbyth.html ) and wrapped the starter. You may be able to use it for some of the other stuff under your hood. I would not wrap the headers, every set (only 3) I have seen wrapped eventually rust out.

bob