I'm looking for some info on headers. I have a 67 f250 camper special, I've got some hedman headers I want to install but my muffler shop tells me that they come so close to the starter they tend to burn the starter out. The motor has to be lifted on the right for installation. and also if you need to replace the starter. Are there any headers that will work? Also the camper special has some plumbing that goes from the block to the tranny and back to the lower radiator hose, all located in the same area (right side), is this a problem with fit?

 

Why do you want headers? Are you going to race your truck? If you must have them, I'd only buy Sandersons. They are much shorter than the traditional long tube headers and should not affect starters as badly.

I presume you are talking about the tranny cooler lines from the transmission to the radiator. Again these lines might be affected by long tube headers, but shouldn't be by shorter types. You can always re-route these lines by cutting out the midsections and running steel braided hoses in their place. This will enable you to route around the exhaust.

 

The installation problems you discribe are going to come up on almost every header out there. The best thing to do is put in a NEW starter(not a rebuilt) before changing to headers. Then put some kind of reflective blanket to keep temps down near the starter. Those 2 options should give alot longer life with your starter. One more thing you might want to try is use a Mini starter. I have heard they are easier to change and you don't have to pull the headers in order to change starter. Hope this helps.

Scott

 

The lines to the tranny come from both sides of the block to the tranny and return to the lower radiator hose. They run coolant and not tranny fluid.This is my second 67 and my dad also has one and all have problems with the exhaust manifolds getting loose and warping. I'm constantly having to retighten, thought headers might solve this problem and add some preformance.

 

Scott,

Never heard of the mini starter,where can I get one? Even with stock exhaust manifold because of the pipe running from block back to tranny, it makes for a tight starter fit now. Are there any disadvantages using the mini as opposed to stock starter?

Mike

 

I installed Hedman Headers on my 1967 F100, 352ci, back in 1972. It had 40,000 miles on it then. I replaced the original starter at 136,000 miles. With the second starter, the truck now has 251,000 miles. After reading your concern about heat burning out starters, I just walked out and measured the clearance between the closest header tube and the starter -- The distance is 3/4"(about one finger width).

The benefit of headers on my truck: Less exhaust heat over cast iron. The engine temperature does not rise as high as stock manifolds when you shut the engine off (test by shutting off engine, wait 3-4 minutes and then turn key to "on" position and observe the temp gauge). Less heat tends to increase valve life. I never removed the heads until 195,00 miles. Also, throttle response was quicker and smoother. I gained about 3/4 mpg, but only after I richened (not leaned) the the carb one jet size on the stock Autolite 2 barrel carb.

Downside: You must loosen header to replace starter. In my case, once in 30 years.

By the way, I'm impressed with the Hedmans still not wearing out after 30 years. My set was one of the first anyone made for the FE block. I had to wait several years before they became available. I guess they were thicker, or something

 

Another potential concern is the power steering unit. I'm not sure if it's the same in the 67, but my Dynomax Headaches had to be beat in to avoid contact with the power steering unit. I think it is still getting very hot and my seals are going bad. It leaks fluid pretty bad. I reccomend paying for good ones. Saving money on headers is only going to cause problems.

 

Amen to buying quality hedders. Cheap hedders are ok for the weekend drag racer. Street users need thick gauge tubing with accurate fit. My Hedmans bolted perfectly with no "minor" modifications. I would call the manufacturer and ask about any potential problems on your exact application.

 

Hedman makes some nice stuff. Insulating the starter and plumbing nearby is just part of running headers. I have seen some Sanderson and Stans headers that were very helpful on trucks with 4 wheel drive. Maybe you should try a more helpful shop......DF

 

 

I want to thank everyone for the info, I talked to another shop and was told some heat shield around the starter will help with that problem, would still like to know about the mini starter if anyone has some info on were to get them.
Mike