Are headers worth it?
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Elder User
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 503
Likes: 0
From: arizona
Are headers worth it?
I tried using the search function but didn't find what i was looking for? My truck is a 70 with the 360 or 390. I've heard it's not worth it on these fe's unless you are modded. only mods i have are 4 barrel and 3" exhaust.
The only reason i ask is that my exhaust manifolds have a leak and wasn't sure if i should just replace the gaskets or upgrade to headers. I also know that the headers can give you leak trouble at first, but I'm not worried about that.
What do you all think?
Thanks,
Mike
The only reason i ask is that my exhaust manifolds have a leak and wasn't sure if i should just replace the gaskets or upgrade to headers. I also know that the headers can give you leak trouble at first, but I'm not worried about that.
What do you all think?
Thanks,
Mike
Cross-Country
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 79
Likes: 1
Headers will help any because they help draw out the exaust gasses. The velocity of the air moving after the valve closes creates a low pressure area that when the valve opens again helps suck out the next "charge" of exaust gas. I usually go over the mounting surface with a flat file before installing them to make sure they are flat. I also retorque them after the motor has ran 30 minutes and cooled. Doing this I rarely have any problems with them.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 930
Likes: 0
From: East Helena MT
I have headers on my 360, but it is in a 65 f-100. If you put some on make sure you go with some good ones, don’t buy the cheap ones, mine are from Dyno-max and where ceramic coated. They still look pretty good and I have had them on there for 7 years now. I have never had a problem with leaks, I used the stock paper collector gaskets but I did use lock nuts on the bolts to keep them from backing off and believe it or not the last time I took my engine out and removed the headers I did not have any header gaskets but I had a set of stock exhaust manifold gaskets so I used those and it has been that way for three years now with no leaks. I did notice a performance gain but I also have some other modifications to my engine as well. Go with the good ones and you should not have any problems.
Jeff
Jeff
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