Best shorty headers

[FFRSpec72]

More bad luck at NASA Northwest round #3 this weekend, the weld around the collector broke (finished all races just vary loud and right at the DB limit), this is the second set of BBK 15150 I have had and the second pair to break. Anyone have any suggestions on a better choice as these are not fixable they were already patched up once earlier this season. Ho about the FMS M-9430-P50? or the MAC 1-5/8 shorty ?

[johngeorge]

I think I run the MAC 1-5/8 headers, whatever you buy make sure they have a thick flandge to bolt up to the heads.

Also, how do you have your side pipes mounted? is it causing too much stress on the headers at the engine side?

[Jim Schenck]

I have had good luck with the JBA headers in my car, they are even just still 1-1/2 inch primaries and still make good power. They are expensive but seem worth it to me. We have also used the FMS headers many times with no issues as well. I would also stick with unequal length as the equal length ones have always given me trouble with welds breaking and plug wires melting.

[FFRSpec72]

Jim/John thanks, I have hangers at the J-Pipe and hangers at the side pipe, so I don't think there is too much stress, I think that I may be tightening them up too much and putting stress on the collector weld. The BBK only have 3 weld spots on the collector flange. I will try the MAC or FMS, the MAC seem not to have a 1 piece head mount but each tube is separate, does that cause any issues ?

[FFRSpec72]

Jim/John thanks, I have hangers at the J-Pipe and hangers at the side pipe, so I don't think there is too much stress, I think that I may be tightening them up too much and putting stress on the collector weld. The BBK only have 3 weld spots on the collector flange. I will try the MAC or FMS, the MAC seem not to have a 1 piece head mount but each tube is separate, does that cause any issues ?

[johngeorge]

Dont get separate tube mounts as they are a ROYAL PITA to put on.. trust me stay away

[FFRSpec72]

Dont get separate tube mounts as they are a ROYAL PITA to put on.. trust me stay away

OK, seems the MAC only come that way now so will try the FMS headers

[skullandbones]

In case you haven't heard, you should only put one bolt in the side pipe holder. at the side pipe flange. Just for FYI in case you weren't in one of those discussions.

WEK.

[FFRSpec72]

In case you haven't heard, you should only put one bolt in the side pipe holder. at the side pipe flange. Just for FYI in case you weren't in one of those discussions.

WEK.

Tell me more please, any references?

[skullandbones]

Here's one thread it was discussed. I think most were using 4x4 headers but the principle is the same.

Side Pipe(s) Hanger - stress cracks & repair

The idea is to let the side pipe float instead of twisting and overstressing the attachment point. I think that might loosen up your system so the load will be spread a little more evenly instead of putting so much pressure on one area. It couldn't hurt to try it. Good luck, WEK.

[FFRSpec72]

I received the FMS headers and they are much better quality than the BBK, on issue was I had to modify the motor mount on the passenger side a little to fit the header. Much better and bigger bell area for the J-Pipes to hook up. much better header bolts (ARP 12 point) and studs.