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Ok great Olds Gurus what brand and part number of exhaust header fits a 1971 Cutlass Supreme with a 350. My car currently has headers but i don't know what brand they are and i would like to get different ones due to mine being almost rusted out. i have read that all the big name brand don't fit Cutlass Supreme.
i have read that all the big name brand don't fit Cutlass Supreme.
Not true, there is no fitment differences for SBO headers between a C/S and any other A-body. This error in "advertisement" has been perpetuated for decades.
Both my 70 and 71 Supremes have had a set of Heddman Headers since 1982. They have fit well and haven’t had any issues. Dunno if the present day versions are comparable or not, though.
I put headers on my 71 98 because they were so SHINY! While it's an easy way to add performance, having to use a BFH to get them to fit, leaky gaskets and bolts/retainers that barely fit are definitely a PITA.
Headers vs manifolds is always a compromise. Yes, headers are shown to add 20-ish HP. As with all trade-offs, there is always a downside. Routing pipes for scavenging and proper tuning means that headers require a lot more volume than do manifolds. Many header manufacturers do a less than stellar job of routing pipes in a given chassis, thus the fitment issues. Yes, gaskets are frequently a problem, though today there are better technologies that mitigate some of the leakage issues. Yes, they hang down and will scrape the ground on bumps. Whether or not one is willing to put up with these downsides in exchange for the increased power is a personal choice. Note that if you intend to make other mods, the effectiveness of those mode likely increases with headers, since improving airflow through the engine is what increases HP.
I’ve installed headers on several vehicles I’ve owned including my ‘72 4-4-2 when I was younger (1976). I loved them. The only thing I’ll add outside what has already been stated is to evaluate the purpose of your vehicle. Headers are great if you’re seeking to upgrade engine performance; yet, be mindful they require a solid engine and proper engine tune via regular maintenance considerations which should also include considerations like rear end ratio, limited slip, carburetor, cam, distributor, ignition, etc. Unless you have the time, tools, money & capabilities (and space) you’d be better served with stock exhaust manifolds on a Cutlass Supreme.
Another option is the Thornton SBO short headers - I replaced my crusty OEM manifolds with them - fit well and give a little more rumble to the motor (not likely much if any 'performance' gain though.
Another option is the Thornton SBO short headers - I replaced my crusty OEM manifolds with them - fit well and give a little more rumble to the motor (not likely much if any 'performance' gain though.
All the cost and leaking gaskets of real headers without the pesky extra horsepower...
The only time I recall my headers scraping were when a friend was driving my car loaded with 7 people and he hit a railroad crossing at 45MPH - the car went airborne and came down HARD, leaving a trail of sparks behind. Other than that, no scraping since the early 80s.
The only time I recall my headers scraping were when a friend was driving my car loaded with 7 people and he hit a railroad crossing at 45MPH - the car went airborne and came down HARD, leaving a trail of sparks behind. Other than that, no scraping since the early 80s.
Unfortunately when I lived in SoCal, the dips at the end of the driveways were a constant scrape point.
Either spend the money on quality headers and gaskets, or leave it alone.
The Hooker headers on my car are at least 20 years old and still work great. I couldn’t tell you the last time I replaced the gaskets on the flange. You do need to occasionally tighten the header bolts once installed, but as the gasket compresses and sets they don’t come loose.
I've been trying to figure out a way to monetize this...
There are developers who could write an app rather easily & modestly priced. “Might” be an enjoyable/fun project. Lots of independent developers who love this type stuff. Tons of folks on on-line forums you could reach out to. I am not trying to talk you into it, yet it isn’t extraordinarily difficult. Something to ponder maybe - could be fun.
There are developers who could write an app rather easily & modestly priced. “Might” be an enjoyable/fun project. Lots of independent developers who love this type stuff. Tons of folks on on-line forums you could reach out to. I am not trying to talk you into it, yet it isn’t extraordinarily difficult. Something to ponder maybe - could be fun.
