Hello all…I did search for a common string on this subject, but couldn’t find what I needed.
So for reasons unimportant to this discussion, I have had to pull my 390 engine out of my '67 GT for the 2nd time now while in my possession. When I originally purchased the car, it came with a brand new set of long-tube Hooker Super Comp headers. So I installed them of course…it was a super pain, but I did it. Anyone who has installed these headers will know that the install is not the last issue you will have. In short, I’m considering tearing the “I love my Hooker headers” sticker off my tool box.
The engine will be ready to re-install soon, and I am seriously considering other options. My original manifolds are gone, so they’re out. I am looking for any positive reviews and/or advice regarding shorty or mid-length, etc…headers. Anything but the long tubes…
The FE is pretty limited in the shorty style of header. You might look into the Sandersons. I see that Summit Racing carries them now. I’m not sure how they fit in a Cougar. They fit well in a buddy’s truck, but did require some massaging to get around the oil pan rail and windage tray – like they were built on a motor without either fitted to it. I don’t remember if they have a Mustang/Cougar specific model, but he was using the block-hugger style to fit the tighter chassis of an old F250.
This is the answer to your problems. The shorty headers are actually even harder to install, and they interfere with the power steering. The Sanderson headers don’t fit Mercury Cougars.
Yes, I considered these as well. The more I dwell on the subject though, the more I find myself wanting to just abandon the header option all together. I’m really not concerned about additional horsepower or performance outside of factory spec. Never was…I just installed the headers in the beginning because I had them. For all the good they do, they also create simple repair and maintenance nightmares. Not to mention making mortal enemies of potholes and speed bumps. I’ve decided that the marginal H/P and performance increase is not worth it…to me. I like Royce’s suggestion of the 428 CJ manifolds. They look good, are plug n’ play, and will still give me all that I want.
You will need to change one bolt location. You will put a stud into the existing hole and then drill and tap a new hole above it. Easy to do with the engine out and the manifolds in hand.
Thank you all for the sound advice and support. My mind is made up and I already have an immediate sense of relief. Have a set Hooker headers I need to go and sell now…
With the CJ manifolds, or the GT manifolds, be sure that you don’t use gaskets between the head and the manifold. Ford did not use gaskets. If you use gaskets they are guaranteed to fail, creating another nightmare. No gaskets = no way for it to fail. The surfaces need to be relatively flat but they certainly do not need to be anything other than “as cast” and free from grease or loose rust.
Royce, that is good advice if you can get it to work. Another option I’ve had great luck with are the copper annealed gaskets. Much like the old-school metal gaskets from the 50s they seal well and don’t burn up. After chasing exhaust leaks on the 390 for years as well as header leaks on an AMC 401, these solved the exhaust leak issues. Put them on the current truck 351 from the get-go and have had no issues with the cheap headers on it.