Installation Tips for Longtube Headers in 383

[Tyron68]

I am swapping out my factory exhaust manifolds for long tube headers on my 69 charger (Jegs part #555-30081). It has the original 383 in it. I am looking for some helpful tips or information that may aid in the installation. I haven’t done this before and imagine there’s a number of people on this forum that have. I was going to go down the YouTube rabbit hole but figured I’d start here. Thanks in advance.

 

[70Hemi-RR]

Depending on how they are made you will probably need to remove or shorten most if not all the studs. Some have coolant behind them. Good luck

 

[gkent]

Not a job for the meek !!

First tip is to buy a quality set of headers. You will curse every moment if you cheap out !!

Second tip ... RARELY will you find a set of headers that are a perfect fit - all bolts line up and the pipes clear everything. Have a ballpeen hammer on hand.

Third - you need space to work - above and below. The engine mounts need to be unbolted and the motor will need to be jacked up. You'll need the front of the car on jackstands for safety. And DEFINATELY - disconnect the battery !

Passenger side will be a breeze - driver side not so much! Avoid the temptation to do the passenger side first - they may have interference when you go to do the driver side.

Good luck !!

 

[gkent]

you will probably need to remove or shorten most if not all the studs. Some have coolant behind them.

Good point. Good idea to drain the coolany !! The new headers will likely come with bolts - have some gasket sealant (not silicone !!) on hand to coat them when you install them.

 

[Don Frelier]

On mine I had to remove the starter, motor mount on drivers side, jack up the engine and then install the header and starter simultaneously
It's a PIA compared to manifolds.

 

[Tyron68]

On mine I had to remove the starter, motor mount on drivers side, jack up the engine and then install the header and starter simultaneously
It's a PIA compared to manifolds.

This is making me seriously question my decision…….