Headman headers

[Ravage]

I've searched the forum but didn't find any post with people explaining headman headers and small blocks specifically. Seems like most everyone goes TTI but I'm cheap Anyway...
I can't get the driver side header in. I removed the starter ,dented a pipe to fit past the steering box ,and even unbolted a motor mount and jack the engine sideways. I just can't get that damn thing in there. Do I remove the steering link and go from the bottom or remove the steering box and go from the top? Is there some other secret I'm not aware of? I'm trying for the path of least resistance but need some advice.

 

[MEK-Dangerfield]

Scott,


 On my big-block, the steering column had to be slid back into the driver's seat. I know we might not be talking about the same thing, but that header goes in from the top. The BIGGIE is getting the pin out of your steering column knuckle where it connects to the steering box. You need a punch for that.   



  Mike

[Ravage]

I'm done in the garage today ,but I'm going to give that a whirl tomorrow. Thank you 

[422STROKER]

Hey Scott,

They most likely need to go in from the bottom.  Get the car on jackstands as high as you can, if the headers capture the link then yes the center link needs to come out.  the instructions for my headers actually refereced doing this even though they don't capture the center link.  Tilt the motor like your doing and send them up flange first.

Tom

[422STROKER]

You must want to hear those mufflers bad huh?LOL

Tom

[Ravage]

You must want to hear those mufflers bad huh?LOL

Tom

You got it 

[MEK-Dangerfield]

For what it's worth, my Headman's went in from below on the passenger's side, from the top on the driver's side. Again, I have a 440, but I seriously doubt much difference in agony.   


  Mike

[Ravage]

Passenger side went in pretty easy ,just pulled the oil filter for clearance and shoved it on up. Hope I get that driver side in tomorrow ,then it's knockoff muffler time!

[71chally416]

When all else fails, follow the directions   
http://www.hedman.com/products/?id=3538

[mikerallye]

Hedmans go in on Driver side form bottom. You must remove the motor mount bolts and lift the engine. Remove starter first and finagle it in. leave the header loose and then put the starter on.  Must  use a small clockable high torque starter and make a heat shield for it; it  will fry if you don't . I did not have to mess with the steering knuckle. Have fun.   These headers fry plug wires too; especially on the passenger side.

[71chally416]

If this is what you have it looks to me like the DRIVERS side would be tougher on plug wires. #5 & 7 cylinders 

[Chryco Psycho]

horrible design , it is difficult to get at 5&7 spark plug , you need 90* ends for those two cylinders , bet you dent the tubes under the steering link the first week & I seem to recall the mini starter will not fit

[71chally416]

Look like the $80 Blackjack Headers I had on my old Cuda. You get what you pay for.

[Jacksboys]

Let me help a little.  You will need to disconnect your steering linkage because it goes between the tubes of driver side hedder.  When I installed mine, I had the engine out and put the hedder in first, then intalled the engine. 

The mini starter will fit with this design because I am using it.   

The main issue with this design is the clearance you have with the ground, or should I say lack there of.  

If you run Edelbrock heads like I am doing, you have to remove the driver side hedder to get the #5 & #7 spark plugs out. 

Good luck with the install.  

[Ravage]

Well I was getting started on the drivers side header and my mother told me I had to clean up so she could put her car away  Garage is too small for parking and working ,have to wait till the next time she's willing to park in the drive for a few days again or get my own place  Will update when the job's done.