81 K10 Headers

[Mike81K10]

Any recommendations for a good set of headers that would fit an 81 K10. I'm concerned that if I buy a set, they my not clear the clutch linkage and other areas. I have A/C, Compressor on Driver Side and it is a standard transmission.

[Captkaos]

I don't have any recommendations on 4x4 stick shift applications unfortunately.  The Clutch and AC historically kept me sticking with manifolds, not to mention headers are thin and I wheeled mine in mud alot.

[JohnnyPopper]

I would think the manufacturer would/should specify if they fit.

I can see the clutch question but don't get the A/C. My '78 has the same, compressor rides high enough that it should clear-I think...

Think 'ball peen' as the final solution.

[Swampyankee74]

Not sure if this helps but I used hedmen 69088 on my 74 c15 non ac truck. Had zero problems with the stock clutch linkage. Not sure if your truck and mine have the same linkage. But might be helpful info for you.

[Mike81K10]

Thanks for the feedback, I think I will find a local supplier and get one from them, then if it does not fit - take it back for a refund or trade.

[Mike81K10]

What advise does the forum have on getting long or shorty headers? Then the coating! Some time ago I build a car that had aluminum coated (Hooker) headers and I liked them. I don't see much aluminum coated headers out there. Stainless, Ceramic, and etc! Any advice from those in the forum would be appreciated. Perhaps even the brand (Manufacturer).

I attached a few pics of headers I was looking at (still looking)!

[Shifty]

Long-tube is the only way to get a gain, the shorties won't give you much, if anything.  They'd install a bit easier, sure. 

[JohnnyPopper]

So why install short headers? Is gain as in power, mileage or both.

Sorry to sound like a rube, just never studied the science. In Cali, they're 'not allowed' by the gubmt.

[Mike81K10]

The Headman 304 Stainless appears to be good and it looks like they might make plugs easier to deal with. I am leaning that way right now. Still deciding!

I have had some trouble with the 2350 in my truck So, I am also thinking about completing a 383 I worked on some time ago. I need a crankshaft or get the one I have turned. Most of the rest of the engine is new (old new), except the (rebuilt) heads are stock and not 202s. It has 10-1 pistons in it! The engine also has a new (1,000 miles on it) camshaft, however it is stock grade and I was thinking about putting in a new one, it is an engine I built about 30 years ago and has been in my shed stored in plastic and in an engine crate.