CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => Mild Modifications => Topic started by: 1969rs on March 12, 2013, 03:53:01 PM

Title: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: 1969rs on March 12, 2013, 03:53:01 PM
Getting rid of my stock exhaust manifolds for headers. Engine is fairly stock, bored .30 over, Performer intake, stock steering box.
Regarding the headers, trying to decide long tubes or shorties, brand, ceramic or steel. They need to be black. I'd obviously like to find a brand / style that is bolt in with no modifications.
So, give me some feedback on what you have, what you like and don't like, and anything else you'd like to share regarding headers for a 69 350.
Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: joesauer on March 12, 2013, 04:24:00 PM
Lot's of good headers available.  Check over at camaros.net for many posts on this subject.  A common problem with aftermarket headers in Gen 1's with small block. is clearance at the steering box.
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: 1969rs on March 12, 2013, 07:00:53 PM
Yep, that's why I'm asking, and why I posted "stock steering box".
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: janobyte on March 12, 2013, 07:34:00 PM
How much do you want to spend ? Cant go wrong with 1 5/8 ceramic tuned hookers ,specify man or auto trans. Keep small diameter for increased bottom end. you can also go with a stepped header bottom end plus increased flow high r's.
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: 1969rs on March 13, 2013, 02:16:49 AM
Turbo 350
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: janobyte on March 13, 2013, 06:33:22 PM
With the automatic you will have no clutch linkage issues interfering with any tube bends. I prefer the long collector over shorties ,looks more period correct ,just my opinion. And yes ,I do prefer black. For a mild street engine you do not have to shell out big bucks for a set of comp headers. Stick with smaller tubes. I recommend ceramic coating: finish longevity ,decreased engine compartment temps but they do lean it out some and you should increase the jet sizes. What ever carb you use the manufacturer's tech department can help with that. Honestly Flowtech ( holley corp.) makes a very affordable dual purpose header which bolts up nice ,good access to plugs. Out of habit I place my headers first than set the engine in but these don't have radical bends and I believe you can install from the top( take your plugs out ! ) I picked up a pair once because I just needed a lowdollar set to fire something up ,they are now on a 38 street rod pick up, sound great on a stock crate motor ,good bottom end and pulls. Also invest in a set of Percy's locking header bolts ,pricey but worth it.  Another option is just to see what the suppliers are coating and putting their name on ( jegs/summit) the bends look like hedman or hooker ,a little less on the wallet . Their are thosands of sbc camaros/novas out their with headers ,should not be a problem. Just don't overpay if you don't have to ,remember these engines are a package carb to exhaust and as long as you keep it balanced, you'll be fine.
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: 69Z28-RS on March 13, 2013, 07:07:29 PM
Good tips Jano.. :)
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: 1969rs on March 14, 2013, 01:10:52 AM
Thx Jano, great info. I am running Edelbrock Performer intake (non-air gap) with 600cfm Edelbrock carb. I was not sure what smaller primary's did, and now I know, better low end.
Thx. Keep the great info coming.
Title: Re: 1969 350 RS header recommendations
Post by: janobyte on March 15, 2013, 09:10:06 PM
Glad to be of some help ,sounds like a really good street combo ,I like Holleys because I know them, my dad swears by that 600 edelbrock for the street ,ran them for years and currently has one in his latest project---- with those flowtech headers !  Retired industrial mechanic of 48 years ,knows his way around the shop .