Using band clamps on headers?
#1
Using band clamps on headers?
I'm planning to put headers on my convertible project. I've never installed headers before and have a few questions for those of you that have more experience than I. It seems like ground clearance is always a concern, and the lowest point on the header is the 3-bolt flange at the collectors. Could you cut off the flange and use a band clamp to connect to the intermediate pipe on the exhaust system?
I'm looking at Hooker 3901 headers for my SBO which have a 2-1/2" collector and my exhaust pipes will be 2-1/2" as well. Seems like a simple connection. Am I missing something about the 3-bolt flange on the collector?
Thanks!
I'm looking at Hooker 3901 headers for my SBO which have a 2-1/2" collector and my exhaust pipes will be 2-1/2" as well. Seems like a simple connection. Am I missing something about the 3-bolt flange on the collector?
Thanks!
#3
Most bands are used for a slip fit, but you can also get specific butt fit bands. Slip will give a better seal and be stronger, but the pipe (not the header) needs to be expanded to slip over the header - and you need enough pipe!
This may not be necessary, depending on the header and how much the car is lowered.
This may not be necessary, depending on the header and how much the car is lowered.
#4
This is what I use.
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/flo-15938/overview/
Get the non-coated headers. Cut the flanges off and weld on the ball n socket parts. Install the headers including any necessary dings, dents, and cuss words. Then remove them and get them ceramic coated.
Not the most convenient order of operations, but the best end result. I did pound on my coated headers and the coating it still holding up strong, your results may vary.
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/flo-15938/overview/
Get the non-coated headers. Cut the flanges off and weld on the ball n socket parts. Install the headers including any necessary dings, dents, and cuss words. Then remove them and get them ceramic coated.
Not the most convenient order of operations, but the best end result. I did pound on my coated headers and the coating it still holding up strong, your results may vary.
Last edited by Mr Nick; December 17th, 2016 at 06:39 PM.
#6
I bought them already coated, new "second hand" from somebody local. The shop I used had a hell of a time welding the ball flanges due to the coating.
However, I have used CPC in Crest Hill for other stuff and have been happy with their work. http://www.cpcpowdercoating.com/
However, I have used CPC in Crest Hill for other stuff and have been happy with their work. http://www.cpcpowdercoating.com/
#7
Nick:
Thanks for the suggestion on the ball flange. That looks like a better connector than a band clamp. Does it matter which end gets the ball and which gets the flange? I was thinking the weld the ball to the header and the flange to the down pipe.
Thanks for the suggestion on the ball flange. That looks like a better connector than a band clamp. Does it matter which end gets the ball and which gets the flange? I was thinking the weld the ball to the header and the flange to the down pipe.
#9
One might not gain much clearance by going to the ball / flange kit; however, it makes sealing the headers 100 times easier. If you ever develop a leak between the ball and flange all you have to do is disassemble the connection, clean it thoroughly and reassemble.
The headers I have on my 71 98 came with a ball / flange style connection and they are great! Of course, I never have trouble scrapping my headers. I'm sure you could change to P235/75 R15s and not have to worry about scrapping your headers either!
The headers I have on my 71 98 came with a ball / flange style connection and they are great! Of course, I never have trouble scrapping my headers. I'm sure you could change to P235/75 R15s and not have to worry about scrapping your headers either!
#11
wr1970:
I read your PM, thank you for the tip. I have 2 questions for you about your tip which I'll call the "floor jack method". Have you ever cracked any pipes loose at the head flange by bending the pipes upward with the floor jack, and how much were you able to raise the collector height? Thanks!
I read your PM, thank you for the tip. I have 2 questions for you about your tip which I'll call the "floor jack method". Have you ever cracked any pipes loose at the head flange by bending the pipes upward with the floor jack, and how much were you able to raise the collector height? Thanks!
#12
wr1970:
I read your PM, thank you for the tip. I have 2 questions for you about your tip which I'll call the "floor jack method". Have you ever cracked any pipes loose at the head flange by bending the pipes upward with the floor jack, and how much were you able to raise the collector height? Thanks!
I read your PM, thank you for the tip. I have 2 questions for you about your tip which I'll call the "floor jack method". Have you ever cracked any pipes loose at the head flange by bending the pipes upward with the floor jack, and how much were you able to raise the collector height? Thanks!
Last edited by wr1970; December 22nd, 2016 at 06:20 AM.
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