I've never run headers before, and I'm concerned about ground clearance on my '72 Cutlass daily driver project since I plan to lower it about 1-1/2". Could I cut off the 3-bolt flange that comes on the headers and use a band clamp to connect to the head pipes? This would streamline the exhaust plumbing and get rid of the pesky header flange that has a bad reputation for leaks. Is this a good idea? Bad idea? Looking forward to some good advice!

Rodney

 

i would like to see somebody make headers with the ball type end like the newer car pipes kinda like the shorty headers for like the chevy"sorry the c word" ls engines.

 

I saw a video on eastwoods site where they use a flex joint after they cut off the flange, might be something to look into.

 

I cut my flanges and made it a slip joint like most exhaust. Its nice, BUT! in order to remove the connection, the whole exhaust needs to be dropped. I plan to either get a butt connector clamp, so I can just butt the 2 ends together, or I'll weld on some ball and socket flanges, but not until the next time I have to take it apart!

 

^^^This. There needs to be some allowance for movement (which is why standard collector gaskets eventually fail). The flex tube and a butt-joint band clamp are a great way to go.

Walker 51107 is a 3" flex connector that should fit most 3" header collectors.

 

Hedman does a ball and socket style collector.

 

I was puzzled until I saw your post Eric. I run Heddman headers on my 71 98 and they have the ball and socket joint. They are excellent quality and fit perfectly (no denting with a ball peen needed). Of course my 98 is different than a Cutlass but Heddman makes a quality header.