Homemade Headers

[123 pugsy]

Well after the disappointing DYNO results ,I decided to build some stainless steel headers. I got some flanges waterjet cut out of 3/8 s/s plate and some 1-1/2" s/s elbows.

[123 pugsy]

I put some black tape around the bolts to keep them centered to bolt up to the mock up engine.

[123 pugsy]

I then bolted them up and welded bars across the top and bottom of the flanges. These are only temporary.

[JJSZABO]

Man - great work - MORE pics please.

[123 pugsy]

Thanks.

I installed an old exhaust manifold to mock up the frame rail location. I then bolted some bars in the approximate location of the frame. I then tacked three of the elbows in place.

[jonkmbll89]

Now that is what you call doing it yourself. Looks great so far. Are you making shorty or long tube headers?

[123 pugsy]

I'd like to try to get all the tubes between 28-32" each. The guys at the Dyno shop told me this is the optimal length. I doubt I'll be able to get them all the same but its worth a shot.

[123 pugsy]

I added a few more pieces and mocked up the dipstick tube. I stopped there as I was having a brain frat and didn't want to screw anything up. I will do more this weekend.

[jonkmbll89]

They're going to be one of a kind. I was just trying to visualize how you would run the spark plug wires. One of my buddies had his headers built for his 67 Nova with a Sb 400. The headers were wicked looking. They cost  him $600.

[okuma]

nice pugsy.

[SatisTraction]

looks like it will be nice. I went the easy route and bought the stainless ones off ebay for $185. they actually look great but only fit OK.

[123 pugsy]

Well I ripped them apart twice. Its not easy to get them all the same length.
This is where I'm at now. The bright side is I have until spring to finish. 

[SatisTraction]

i read up on your dyno and i do not see how this will help your air fuel ratio. A/F is controlled by several items and the tune. a custom tune would be the biggest help. The headers will be nice but dont be suprised when you have the same problems.

[JJSZABO]

Keep it going Pugsy.  We have faith in you....

Keep the pictures comming.

[123 pugsy]

i read up on your dyno and i do not see how this will help your air fuel ratio. A/F is controlled by several items and the tune. a custom tune would be the biggest help. The headers will be nice but dont be suprised when you have the same problems.

The guy told me that the engine is being choked off. I pulled off the intake box to test his theory and bang. The air/fuel came up along with torque and HP. The air/fuel was actually lower than the 10:1 it shows as the machine flatlines there.
The guy seemed to know what he was talking about. I will also be adding 2-1/2" true dual exhaust ( with cats of course).

I'll get a DYNO when I'm done and check it out.I'm sure the worst thing is that I end up with more power and a better looking engine compartment.
When (if) this doesn't help the situation, I will get the necessary scan tool and check that out.