Hooker,doug's,TTI?
Removing the steering column isn't that bad. I did attempt to install the motor/headers with steering column in place, sadly needed less than 1/2" of space. Removed the column and the headers dropped in. No denting
The sanderson headers have the smallest primary tube size at 1 1/2". I believe dougs and tti are 1 5/8" The collectors are 2 1/2"
I also made the decision to change to power steering to manual for the space savings (and other benefits). The jury is out on this decision