Urgent: Need Advice On 454 BBC Headers For 71 Nova - Page 2

71Nova454 · #11 09-17-2006, 05:51 AM

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 · #12 09-17-2006, 07:09 AM

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

**markjohnson** · #13 09-17-2006, 07:09 AM

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.

**Xplantdad** · #14 09-17-2006, 07:56 AM

And this just goes to show why this site is such a cool place to hang out...LOTS of good info here

VintageMusclecar · #15 09-17-2006, 04:02 PM

Not to sound contrary to what's already been discussed, but a 2" header is a bit large for a relatively mild street BBC. A 1 3/4" header will easily support well over 500 HP, usually with the added benefits of more low end torque, plus they almost always fit better and offer better spark plug access than the larger tubes do. I haven't priced any lately, but they used to be considerably more affordable than the larger tubes as well.

Just something to think about.

Eric

**WILMASBOYL78** · #16 09-17-2006, 06:19 PM

I used the Hooker comp model on our 68 BB Nova and they worked great. We fit them to the car and then sent them out for coating. They look great and sound awesome! The folks at NNN may be able to help you with some recommendations on this project and any other Nova stuff you need. 717-252-4192

wilma

**Salvatore** · #17 09-17-2006, 07:47 PM

[ QUOTE ]
Not to sound contrary to what's already been discussed, but a 2" header is a bit large for a relatively mild street BBC. A 1 3/4" header will easily support well over 500 HP, usually with the added benefits of more low end torque, plus they almost always fit better and offer better spark plug access than the larger tubes do. I haven't priced any lately, but they used to be considerably more affordable than the larger tubes as well.

Just something to think about. I fully agree with Eric!

**azcamaros** · #18 09-17-2006, 08:03 PM

I agree with Sam and Eric, 1-3/4" primary tube size is the best fit for your application. About 10 years a go I used a set of Dynomax brand headers with the factory coating on a 70 BB Nova with great results; larger tubes are not always the best applicaton for mild street motors IMO.

**markjohnson** · #19 09-17-2006, 08:38 PM

A 454 is a big motor and it needs big headers. Me and my friends make fun of big blocks when we see small block-sized 1 3/4 headers on a nice Rat motor. Might as well keep the exhaust manifolds. "You need back pressure" is a myth that header companies tell you when they want you to buy their inferior cheap, small tube headers or small mufflers.

VintageMusclecar · #20 09-17-2006, 09:28 PM

[ QUOTE ]
..."You need back pressure" is a myth that header companies tell you when they want you to buy their inferior cheap, small tube headers or small mufflers.

[/ QUOTE ]

It's not about "back pressure", it's about velocity.

But, to each their own. I'm not here to argue (or even debate) the subject.

Eric