Thread: Headers for 57

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O.K. nobody throw a wrench at me! Has anyone figured out if you can install headers on a SmallBlock Chevy on a 57? If so, what are the modifycations?

Is this a trick question?

A '57 with a SBC???? Been a gadzillion of em with headers over the years. Check with Hooker, Hedman, or any of the header manufacturers.............must be a trick question????

NO its not a trick question and I'm not trying to be a smart a$$! The last time I looked into this was a year ago, and everybody had problems with the drivers side headers running into the steering box. I just wanted to know if they (any header company) now sell over the counter headers that bolt right on? Do you still need to convert the steering box too? I hope I cleared this up. Sorry for the confusion. Thanks Zet

".......A '57 with a SBC???? Been a gadzillion of em with headers over the years. Check with Hooker, Hedman, or any of the header manufacturers........"

Dave's right on the money, and I'd wager there may even be more 55-57 Chevys running around with headers than there are that are still running stock manifold I've done a few sets over the years and there are several different configurations including; "standard" long tube, big tube race headers, tri-Ys and shorty (to include cast and tube type).

I don't recall the installation on the 57's really being any more difficult than any other header installation, they can all be a giant PIA, sometimes involving loosening motor mounts, minor clearancing of header tubes etc.

You might try a tri-5 site and ask them what header brands people have had the best luck with (I am NOT trying to run you off here, this is a great site with lots of information and everyone is welcome).

Mike, you won't run me outta here! Its just been a while since I look into this. I'm just getting all my "Ducks in a Row" If you know what I mean? Befor I bust knuckles. Thanks for the quick input. Zet

Like Dave said, been done mucho mucho. Yes, the steering box can be a problem with some fits, and the bell housing crossmember causes most four tube full length headers on stock frames to hang real low, and they will hang below the frame, so if you're lowered, you will probably be banging your headers on the street some. Shorty headers work much better than full length four tube collector types, because you can tuck the head pipe up tight to the crossmember, and work around the steering box with the single pipe.

I think Rrumbler brought up a very valid point. Unless you are going racing, I would consider the block hugger headers. I do remember that ground clearance on the Tri-Five's is an issue with long headers.