Installation Tips for Longtube Headers in 383

[Don Frelier]

Mini starter makes this tons easier than the heavy oem unit. Mine came out of the bottom of my ‘71, meaning the front end of the car needed to be a bit high. Over this winter I’m going back to my oem manifolds.

It is a mini starter.
Still a PIA

And yes the driver side only goes in from below.

 

[Plyrr471]

Just curious. How come you are going back to the stock manifolds?

First of all I still have the originals, plus my Hooker Super Comps are looking a little ratty, even though they’ve been Jet Hot Coated. Considering selling my car so looking to make it as original appearing as possible. Plus I want to replace my solid motor mounts with something a bit more “livable”.

 

[Tyron68]

First of all I still have the originals, plus my Hooker Super Comps are looking a little ratty, even though they’ve been Jet Hot Coated. Considering selling my car so looking to make it as original appearing as possible. Plus I want to replace my solid motor mounts with something a bit more “livable”.

View attachment 1958089

Got it.

 

[Don Frelier]

First of all I still have the originals, plus my Hooker Super Comps are looking a little ratty, even though they’ve been Jet Hot Coated. Considering selling my car so looking to make it as original appearing as possible. Plus I want to replace my solid motor mounts with something a bit more “livable”.

View attachment 1958089

I'd just sell it as is looks fine

 

[Plyrr471]

Thanks Don.

 

[ckessel]

One thing nobody mentioned. Disconnect the battery prior to diving in on this change. Doing this covers you from unintentionally short circuiting when you touch the starter or alternator when you're working.

 

[Tyron68]

One thing nobody mentioned. Disconnect the battery prior to diving in on this change. Doing this covers you from unintentionally short circuiting when you touch the starter or alternator when you're working.

Got it, thanks for the info!

 

[gkent]

And DEFINATELY - disconnect the battery !

Someone needs to read ALL the posts !!!

 

[WileE]

And DEFINATELY - disconnect the battery !

Someone needs to read ALL the posts !!!

Definitely.

 

[YY1]

Also- don't forget to disconnect the battery.

 

[WileE]

Also- don't forget to disconnect the battery.

Did anyone mention to disconnect the battery definitely ?

 

[ckessel]

I'm not sure. But the op gets the point by now. Plus, I need readers.

 

[1967coronet]

You haven't lived until you install a set of lower buck headers on a b body with a big block.
All good info above.
All the head holes will need sealant.
One thing that helps is to use studs on the front and rear holes, helps for gasket install and helps with the starter being able to swing the header a little before you tighten them up.

You can make a smoother looking ding or dent useing a old impact socket on a extension and your hammer.
Have fun , have a drink or 3 , cuss alot,
Report back when done .