Urgent: Need Advice On 454 BBC Headers For 71 Nova

[92646]

I went though this with my 1969 Camaro with the 454 and 540. I ran Dougs short 1.75 headers first and I was very impressed with quality but the tube interfered with the power steering box so I had to dimple it. I went to Hooker 2.0 super comps the next time and the fit was better. I installed the headers in the car with the motor in place and it was more work than expected. I would recommend pulling the motor out of the car and placing the motor back in after you put the headers in position. Then you can replace the motor mounts and stands at the same time. I went to urethane mounts and gained a little more clearance in place of the original style mounts. I also ended up replacing the exhaust system with a 3 inch system to work with the bigger headers because I was not happy with the transition from the 3.5 collector to the 2.5 exhaust pipes.
Mark Sheppard

[AutoInsane]

What are the coatings on the Hooker headers? Are they prone to rust after a while? I Jet Hot coated the exhaust manifolds on my CJ-5 10 years ago and not a spot of rust to this day. Might be a good time to get them coated when you buy them. I highly recommend it.

http://www.jet-hot.com/

They sell coated Hooker and other brands of headers for your Nova too:

http://www.jet-hot.com/pages/Precoats/Nova.htm

[92646]

I bought my headers coated from Hooker and the coating was not as good as I have seen on other headers. Be careful with the instalation because the coating can scratch very easily. I left the wrapping on the headers during the instalation and that helped. You might want to buy the header bolts with the clips that keep the bolts from backing out. I think they are called spec 8 or a name close to that. You might also check with Jet hot because they sell new coated headers at a good price.
Mark Sheppard

[Salvatore]

hey Michael, I agree with Orange County Mark. The coatings on the Hooker SC's don't last as long. I would buy the cheaper set of Hookers and get them coated yourself. Different header tubing size helps determine the fit also. You don't need Pro Stock sized tubes for the street. I love you west coast guys and especially your good used sheetmetal!!! Sam

[MosportGreen66]

I have Jet Hot coating on the headers on my '70 Camaro and it’s not everything I've expect. Make sure there is no moisture in the garage where the car is and also take really careful care of the headers. I think Jet Hot advises you use some sort of polish for the headers. Make sure you follow their directions meticulously otherwise they will rust (Slowly).

I would just powder coat them flat white.

[markjohnson]

Gotta agree with the fact that Hooker's coating is terrible and doubles the price of the headers. I bought my set new coated from Hooker and within a year they were just peppered with surface rust. I'd avoid the Super Comps and just get the #2457 regular Hooker Comp headers and a couple cans of VHT Hi-Temp paint. Pick your own color but I like traditional white!

[71Nova454]

Thanks for all the replies so far fellas...Going to talk to my dad tonight and pass along this info to him.

so what size tubing should he be looking for?
Anyone know what size tubing the Hooker Comp #2457 are?

I doubt he's looking to get the ceramic coated ones as he's looking for something durable, that'll provide good performance and will just bolt on without any dimpling, etc.

If possible he's wanting to do this without lifting the motor...I'm not sure whether the motor mounts are for the big block or small...From what I've read that can make all the difference on the clearance issues.

Thanks again,

Michael

[396L35]

Hooker Comp #2457 are 2" primary tubes...

[markjohnson]

Those Hooker #2457's are 2.00 inch primaries, which is a great size for a big block. As long as you make the very small investment in the proper frame mounts, you won't have to take a hammer anywhere near those nice new headers. Spark plug clearance is great and you they are a very easy install without having to lift the motor to put them in place. Great header, great price, easy install. You're all set.