firstgear

I am building a restomod 63 Corvette SWC with custom chassis and LS7 coupled to T56.

I am trying to find a set of headers that might fit the LSx - T56 combination and avoid having to spend the time to build a custom set of full length headers.

The Z06 Corvette has interference problems with the headers that fit that car because the transmission is in the rear, as opposed to being closely coupled.

So my question is, what GM cars had LS motors tied directly to a T56 transmission.

I am assuming that LSx motors all have the same exhaust configuration. If that is wrong, I need to know that too.

As you can see I dont know too much in this area, but figured if anyone would know it would the forum members on this site.

regards, Herb

smokeshow72

Herb, give a call or an email to Drew and the guys at Kook's; their headers are fantastic and hopefully they can steer you in the right direction.

http://www.kookscustomheaders.com/index.php

Great looking build; one of the best looking 'Vettes IMO

C

Starz T/A 17

iTrader: (6)

C5 corvettes (97-2004) and LS1 F bodies (98-03) all had the T56 bolted directly to the engine, but not sure if you would run into fitment issues. Might save a lot of time and money to go ahead and get them custom done.

firstgear

Stainless Works wants $3200 for a custom set.....

firstgear

I understand that perhaps the problem is with the engine mount area. The fact that an adapter plate is used for the LS mount to get the engine mated up with the old style/location mounts.

firstgear

The mount needs to be moved to the set of holes to the left, but you see the adapter plate...

bczee

iTrader: (12)

One option to not completely build a set from scratch is to get a set of BBC headers for the 63 Vette, cut the flange off and weld on new LSx flanges (or a flange with the correct port shape. Most other that have done this have only had to make minor tube mods. This way most of the tube routing is known to fix the frame and suspension of the Vette.

BC

Big Block Stingray

C5 corvettes had a rear mounted transaxle and engine was connected to the tranny via torque tube just like the C6.

Big Block Stingray

Also look at the 2004-2006 GTO's...your problem is the custom chassis, so a factory set of headers will probably not work. You might have to bite the bullet and spend the money or make your own.

Best of luck

tsnow678

iTrader: (3)

Why not run the factory LS7 exhaust manifolds as they supposedly flow great. They tuck nice and cost would be to a minimum.

garys 68

iTrader: (1)

There are quite a few C3s with LSx motors over at corvetteforum. Same layout as C2 except for your custom frame. Might give you some ideas.
I used the 02 LS6 exhaust manifolds on my 68. They flow great and even cleared the Z bar.

firstgear

I found a short header from one of my friends that will work, but not a full length one. Not sure what that difference will make, anyone know?

Also the header is for 2.5" exhaust pipes versus 3" exhaust pipes. How much impact will that have on performance. I don't plan on drag racing it nor mid Ohio type racing. Just for street and the occasional burnout. :-)

Is there much of a difference in how it sounds given everything else equal?

Perhaps this is the way to go......thoughts?

firstgear

I was looking for something that would look good as well....

Rick Speed

iTrader: (55)

Longtubes are better for torque but if your using a stock or low profile cam that wont matter so much. The size will not matter either depending on cam size. What cam are you running?

firstgear

Thomson automotive out of Wixom michigan is building the motor. Brian Thomson says it will be 600 to 650 hp. I have a Kinsler cross ram to put on it. LS7 motor w/wet sump. I do not know what cam.

SS69LS1

iTrader: (108)

There are a couple of mid-length headers for LS1 swaps. Not the long tube you'd like, but better than stock style manifold or a shorty. Not sure if you have the clearance for those either. Just another option. Great build- cant wait to see it finished!

S10xGN

iTrader: (11)

I've got a set of stock manifolds like Gary shows in his post (#11) that I'll sell for CHEAP if you want to go that route. They'd look pretty good cleaned up and ceramic coated.

OTOH, the BBC headers might fit, but the bore spacing is far enough off (4.8" vs 4.4") that it would take some hammering. I used Ford 351W headers with LS flanges in my Maverick swap...

99VetteFRC

C5 Vettes have the trans in the rear like a C6.