Headers ??

[csdineley]

Hello

    I have a 87 R20 350 tbi and my stock manifolds are being a pita. So I was thinking about getting some headers. And after searching and reading for hours now. I'd thought I'd just ask. Long tube, mid length, or shorty's? Would there be any real difference in a stock 350 tbi as a daily driver?

                    Thanks

[bd]

They 'sound' and 'look' way cooler!      But, you probably will need to reconfigure the exhaust for proper fitment.  Might as well change the muffler at the same time.  Long-tube headers generally provide a performance edge, though you likely won't notice much difference between any of the header styles without extra engine work.  Headers on an otherwise stock engine may provide a slight improvement in torque and mileage (as long as you don't take regular advantage of the extra power).  However, IMO you always run a slight risk of exhaust leaks around the flanges, so select a header with 5/16" or thicker laser cut flanges.

[ehjorten]

I put a set of Hedman Elite (1-5/8" primary) headers on my '77 with the SBC350 and have been happy.  The flanges are thicker and the tubing is also thicker.  Nice headers.  Only thing is I would recommend you stay away from the ball and socket headers.  I have had more problems with that connection!  Get the standard 3-bolt and use a good composite gasket.  Frome an engineering standpoint the bolted connection of the ball and socket is less than ideal.  Factory 2-bolt ball and socket flanges might be okay and work well, but the aftermarket stuff for our vehicles just isn't up to par.  I also recommend using Remflex header gaskets!

[DustyRusty]

I put a set of Hooker long-tube 4-into-one headers on my truck way back in '75 and they are still going strong.  They didn't have particularly thick flanges but they did not leak.  Back then there was no such thing as a fancy coating to make them last longer.  I chose them primarily because they were tucked up high in the frame and were safer from ground obstacles.  As bd mentioned, there was a slight gain in torque and mpg.  I would suggest that whatever brand you buy, you get them coated inside and out so they last longer.  IIRC, Jet-Hot does this and there may be others.

http://www.jet-hot.com