headers ,etc., questions

[Neal Zimmerman]

OK now that the motors out I am thinking a new set of headers would be nice instead of the POS hedmans in there now. Seems TTI and dougs are the favorites around here , although spendy. Here's a few questions that came up. Answer as many or as few as you can stand.
1) If I get a new set of some kind of headers does that mean my old exhaust system needs to go. Its brand new. Came with car. I know I couldn't expect the hookup to be in the exact same spot, but could a shop modify my system to meet up with the headers?
2) Has anybody every tried the Schumacher shorties In a 68 Barracuda/ small block? I had a pair on my old 64 barracuda with 360 and I was very impressed with them. They seemed very high quality and fit beautifully with a mini starter. I would be willing to give them a try again.
3) Long range plan is a four speed conversion someday, will headers and /or system need to be all changed at that point?
4) I have a pair of small block A-body manifolds that came from a 67 barracuda with a 318 in it. They have the small ports though. Could I port them out to match my 340 heads? Anybody ever tried that extrude honing?
Thanks. Neal

 

[rumblefish360]

Question #1 .... Yes
I like the entire TTI set up myself.
Question #2 .... Have not tried them.
Question #3 .... If the header you install are OK'd by the maker stating they will clear and automatic and a manual trans then it should be just fine. The exhaust piping should not be an issue. It is far enough away from the linkages not to be of any concern.
Question #4 ... Not sure but I do not think it is possible to port the smaller exhaust manifolds to the larger size. You need a gasket to check this.

4b .... I have read several times that the extra expense and actual power return on extreme honing wasn't worth it to do. UNLESS you are racing & looking for every last .001 second.
Pricey will low yields.