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I just installed a ford 302 in my 49 F1, need help with the exhaust, shorty headers dump on top of steering box and long headers do not fit because of steering box any suggestions? I am hoping that stock mustang exhaust manifolds will fit and allow enough room to connect mufflers. Any pictures would be great.
I have shorty headers but the driver side dumps out on top of the steering box. and there is not enough room between the engine and steering box to run long tube headers.
What model vehicle are your current headers for? There are several configurations of SBF headers that may work for you, but before I or others offer suggestions it would be nice to know what you have already.
On my 49 I have the Toyota power steering box. I run the speedway polished shorty headers. I did sit the engine over to the passenger side about 1 inch. I have plenty of room. They run into side pipes that are mounted at the edge of the running boards
The Headers are for a 289/302 SBF they are not vehicle specific. the problem i am running into is the clearance between the engine block and the steering box mounted on the frame. The header sits on top of the steering box and if I flip the headers then it sits on top of my motor mount cross member.
Last edited by Chadlv; Jun 9, 2026 at 09:52 AM.
Reason: Adding pictures.
I would look at an early Mustang Tri-Y header. Less pipes, more clearance and you can heat and pull the driver's side towards the center of the truck if you need a little more clearance.
My 51 F1 has a 302, stock steering and Sanderson headers (done by PO). I’ll take a picture later today and post it. They go into down pipes with a H crossover and into Borla Mufflers. No droan and quieter than road noise at speed. But still noticeable at idle.
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