Hello

I have a Cutlass 1971 with a 350 smallblock. Is it possible put headers on it?I heard that is impossible if you dont have the shifter by the steeringwheel. Is that true?

 

Yes they make headers for it. It doesn't matter if you have column or floor shifter. You still have the rod going from the transmission to the steering column on your 71.

Note that not all headers fit well and can be a pain to put in. The question you need to ask is who makes the best fitting headers for your car.

Also note you will need to get the ones for the 350 Olds ones for the 455 are different because of taller deck height of the 455.

 

ok. but must i take out the engine of the car if i want to put on headers? Or is it possible to asseble them without to get the engine out?

 

You don't have to take the engine out. The best way I have found is to jack the car up as high as your jack stands will go. Take off the starter. Remove your old manifolds get the exhaust out of the way. Transmission lines may have to be removed? If they are in the way. You may have to bend them when the headers go in to clear the headers.

A few times I have had to take out the engine mount bolts and use a something to lift the engine just enough to get the headers in.

It takes a little time. Just becarefull. Take your time.

 

Andy is correct. You may have to lift the engine a few inches to install the headers.

 

Also, remove the oil filter, and filter mount. Re-install that with a new gasket.
Make SURE that you have at least 1/2 clearance from all brake lines/ header tubes.
I lost my brakes once, due to the fact the header tubes put a hole in them.
Jim

 

Hooker headers will fit, but the fitment is a tight one. The heat shield at the starter may have to be modified (bent) to clear the header tubes, no big deal.

 

i think i have a set of headders to fit your car (that wont fit mine )