4.9 Header Question
Thread Starter
|
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 647
Likes: 3
From: Brumley, MO
4.9 Header Question
I want to know if you guys that are using headers on 80-86 models had fittment issues? I want the least amount of trouble with a set of headers. Please do not suggest EFI manifolds I have a set I'm willing to get rid of cheap if anyone wants them say so. Pictures of the motor in the truck with the headers will be cool.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 5,330
Likes: 17
From: Dryden, ON, Canada
The only issue you'll have is that you will need to clearance the backside of the alternator bracket, like so:
I apologize for the poor picture quality, but it was taken in the days of 35mm and scanners...
Otherwise, they will fit just fine.
Here's a couple installed pics:
The one pictured is Hedman part # 89-300.
I apologize for the poor picture quality, but it was taken in the days of 35mm and scanners...
Otherwise, they will fit just fine.
Here's a couple installed pics:
The one pictured is Hedman part # 89-300.
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 667
Likes: 4
From: New Jersey
I too used the Hedman's. Clearance the hell out of the alternator bracket. The more you grind off and smooth down, the better it will all clink into place. Now would be a good time to chop off the smog pump like so...
I have a 2WD, and you CANNOT remove the starter from mine without removing the headers too, so check that clearance as well before you tighten everything down.
I have a 2WD, and you CANNOT remove the starter from mine without removing the headers too, so check that clearance as well before you tighten everything down.
Thread Starter
|
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 647
Likes: 3
From: Brumley, MO
So I have to grind the alternator bracket down on the back side. I paid 100$ total for them but I'd let them go for less shoot me an offer(I might have to have to ship them to you if you don't live in mid MO).
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 667
Likes: 4
From: New Jersey
Fel-Pro metal gasket leaked like a sieve on me; ended up using Mr. Gasket # 260 to seal it. Used stock style bolts/studs (bought new). No problems so far...
Trending Topics
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 5,330
Likes: 17
From: Dryden, ON, Canada
I never had issues with the gasket that came with my header.
However, pretty much every 300 I have ever been around has had the manifold bolts come loose on a semi-regular basis, so, checking them has always been part of my maintenance routine.
However, pretty much every 300 I have ever been around has had the manifold bolts come loose on a semi-regular basis, so, checking them has always been part of my maintenance routine.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership
Brett Foote
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches
Pouria Savadkouei
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained
Brett Foote
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Verdad Gallardo
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer
Joe Kucinski
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)
Brett Foote
Top 10 Ford Truck Tragedies
Joe Kucinski
Thread Starter
|
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 647
Likes: 3
From: Brumley, MO
So how much grinding would you say is involved here? I'm guessing everybody is using Hedman Hedders on here. I was kind of thinking Dynomax, but it doesn't seem like anybody on here has used them(at least not 80-86). They may have their own unique fittment issues that may not be as easy to mess with. So I guess I will go with Hedman Hedders.
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 667
Likes: 4
From: New Jersey
So how much grinding would you say is involved here? I'm guessing everybody is using Hedman Hedders on here. I was kind of thinking Dynomax, but it doesn't seem like anybody on here has used them(at least not 80-86). They may have their own unique fittment issues that may not be as easy to mess with. So I guess I will go with Hedman Hedders.
Check out the headers Hooker makes (part # 6823HKR). AFAIK, they are the only tuned long tube header for the 300. Also a bit pricey, which is probably why most guys use the Hedmans; I have found nice Hookers used on Craigslist for about half the price, so you might score if you do some digging.
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 673
Likes: 0
From: Maryland
If you haven't already done so, please consider replacing that rubber fuel hose that is getting IR blasted from the #2 exhaust port; bad things could happen to that clean engine compartment... 
I would use new hard pipe or #6 braided steel hose such as Russell, Earls etc w/proper AN fittings. Cheap insurance.
I would use new hard pipe or #6 braided steel hose such as Russell, Earls etc w/proper AN fittings. Cheap insurance.
Thread Starter
|
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 647
Likes: 3
From: Brumley, MO
Yes I agree your truck looks good with it's hood up. I would also like to hear about your flex fan. I thought about getting one because it's easy to install, and it's supposedly easier on all the parts hooked up to the belts or something.
More Turbo
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 667
Likes: 4
From: New Jersey
If you haven't already done so, please consider replacing that rubber fuel hose that is getting IR blasted from the #2 exhaust port; bad things could happen to that clean engine compartment...
I would use new hard pipe or #6 braided steel hose such as Russell, Earls etc w/proper AN fittings. Cheap insurance.
I would use new hard pipe or #6 braided steel hose such as Russell, Earls etc w/proper AN fittings. Cheap insurance.
Used the Flex-Fan because the stock fan for what ever reason wouldn't fit the new pump I put on, and the old fan is both heavy and ugly by comparison. Also, it has the same color red as the truck, which I think contrasts the blue and makes it pop a little more.
Posting Guru
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 1,173
Likes: 0
From: northern va
i have a headman header on my 84 and unless you plan for a 4 barrel intake and other mods you are wasting your time and money. they are a pain to install and keep from leaking. i had to put studs on mine with grade 5 hardware after the first gasket blew out. if i could go back i would have never touched it. dont plan on more power from it and if you have a 4x4 its pain to get the pipes past the transfer case. the only change was the tone at mid rpms. (not worth it unless you build the rest of the motor) if i could go back i would consider using the stock manifod and trying to put a turbo on the single pipe, then you will see a change!!! but i dont know how much intake change has to be made for boost