71 Cuda 440/727 with headers drop???

[CudamanTom]

Is it possible to drop in a 440/727 combo with headers attached into a 71 Cuda or do I need to remove headers to do it? One header? Both headers? or no headers at all? If not headers, do I place the headers in place before dropping the motor? I know it's a close fit but wanted to get your opinion/experience.

I do not have A/C or P/S and engine bay is empty except for steering if that helps.

Thanks in advance

Tom

[Topcat]

The only way I could imagine installing an engine in with headers on is to drop the body onto the engine. From above would have too many clearance issues.

[CudamanTom]

The only way I could imagine installing an engine in with headers on is to drop the body onto the engine. From above would have too many clearance issues.

Thanks Mike,
That's what I was figuring but thought I would ask. First timer here (440 engine).
Thanks again for your input.

Tom

[Topcat]

Check your mating surfaces on your headers with a machinists straight edge before you put them on.
Chances are they aren't perfect. Rarely are headers ready to..."just bolt on perfect flush/straight".


A big bench sander will true them at a machine shop.

[CudamanTom]

Check your mating surfaces on your headers with a machinists straight edge before you put them on.
Chances are they aren't perfect. Rarely are headers ready to..."just bolt on perfect flush/straight".
A big bench sander will true them at a machine shop.

Good point Mike,
The headers came with the engine in a simular application.
I'll do an initial drop and see if there is binding of other componemts.
Thanks again for your input. Very much appreciated!!!
Tom

[Topcat]

No problem Tom. Keep us posted on your project. Nice Cuda you have.

['Cuda Hunter]

I put my headers in the engine bay, and then dropped in the motor.
Had to do that on my barracuda's and even in my 77 ramcharger.

I was surprised I had to do that in the ramcharger.

[CudamanTom]

Let it be known....
A full 440/727/headers assembly "WILL" drop in a 71 Cuda (with no A/C or P/S).
It was very tight but mission accomplished.
I removed the hood bolts to tilt the hood further back.
I also had to deal with an extra deep oil pan (stroker 440) 
The height of the garage door opening was almost a problem since the car was on jacks.
And the angle of the engine, the water pump was starting to hit the the hoist.
Looking closely you can see it was indeed tight but we got her in place.
Inch by inch we lowered it watching the clearance from above, below and side by side.
2 inches one way or another would have been a huge deal.
My brother (in the red hair) helped me (the guy in the long white hair with flames on top  ) 
Anyway, she sits and ready for a complete new fuel and exhaust system.
Here are some pics (if I did this right) .
Gawd I love working on Cudas!!!

[Grec]

I'm looking at those pics and thinking "Don't scratch that gorgeous Sassy Grass paint!" Good work!

[CudamanTom]

Thanks Grec,
I was checking all sides every inch of the way. 
And I do mean every inch by inch of the way.

Tom

[Matt70]

Cool pics and nice work!

[CudamanTom]

Thanks George,

I searched for info and pics prior to doing this and really couldn't find anything, at least anything current. My brother thought I was nuts to stop and take pics in the middle of it but had a better understanding after it was done. After all, it's a part of history in "my" Cuda book.

Tom

[mopar12372]

wow , almost time to drive !!! good luck

[CudamanTom]

wow , almost time to drive !!! good luck

Thanks a bunch,
I'm getting my new exhaust system (Magnaflow) next Monday. Then purchasing new fuel system/brake system and radiator/hoses when funds allow.
BUT, I plan to fire it up for short engine runs (on jacks) after the exhaust comes in next week.
I'm ready to get her on the road. Damn I'm ready...