Conversions & Swaps LSX Engines in Non-LSX Vehicles
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Old Jul 23, 2008 | 10:04 PM
  #1  
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Default LS1 Swap Headers

I am installing a 5.3 into a 64 Nova with a Heidt's mustang ll front clip. Does anyone have any info on long tube headers for this swap? I know that Lemons has a set, but I'm not sure if I want to spend 1200 bucks!! Any info on cheaper headers would be appreciated. Thank you.
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 04:48 AM
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You'd think, with this being a popular swap, somebody would be making them..........
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 07:03 AM
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I hada 65 nova 3 years ago and I always wante to do a swap but money got tight and it had to go. Good luck with the build
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 08:16 AM
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Could always build them. I just finished modifying a set of Hedman long-tubes to suit the 5.3 my son is putting in his 89 Camaro. Each side needed two tubes rerouted to suit the change in port spacing. Also the SBC flanges were cut off and new LSx flanges welded on. I also built a custom Y-pipe using J-bends.

There's a thread on another forum about the project but I don't know if I can post such links on here.
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 08:35 AM
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I used the stock Camaro(actually T/A) exhaust manifolds. The drivers side fits just fine, the passenger side needed modifying as it ran into the firewall / subframe connection. The 99 manifolds are a double wall SS construction, to this I have attached the CC's, albeit they needed to be modified also.
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 10:10 AM
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Here's my solution. Not your car, but I doubt the Heidt's clip is any tighter than the steering shaft on my Rod & Custom front clip. My rails are 26 1/2" wide.

Russ
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 10:19 AM
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In my case it's not really the tightness of the frame rails but where the A-arms are and the junction of the frame rails with the firewall. But I do commend you on your job
Attached Thumbnails LS1 Swap Headers-passenger-side_exhaust-manifold_a_8-07a.jpg  

Last edited by 67pete; Jul 24, 2008 at 10:25 AM.
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 03:35 PM
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I have a '68 Camaro with a custom front end subframe which uses rack and pinion steering. The r&p seems to be more forgiving than the old saginaw gearbox so it seems to free up some room on the driver's side. I bought a set of the newer Dynatech swap headers for the 67-69 Camaro as soon as they went into production and they work great. They have plenty of allowance for the steering box and in my case the r&p shaft with joints. I can't imagine your front end is too much different so they may work for you also.
Attached Thumbnails LS1 Swap Headers-camaro-6-10-017.jpg  
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Old Jul 24, 2008 | 10:24 PM
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Originally Posted by 67pete
In my case it's not really the tightness of the frame rails but where the A-arms are and the junction of the frame rails with the firewall. But I do commend you on your job
Yesss, that could be a problem. Have you checked out S&P Performance? Try page 98...

Russ
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Old Jul 28, 2008 | 03:54 AM
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I believe that ten5nova was looking for long tubes, as are most of us. Headman and Hooker have had the short tubes(block hugger) for a while. S&P's are a step in the right direction...just not quite there yet(speaking for myself)!
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Old Jul 28, 2008 | 11:48 PM
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Has anyone tried these? http://www.ssheaders.com/muscle.htm

I was told #5207 fits tight to the block, and would work with most any front end with a R&P. I was also told I could try them for fit, and return them if they aren't damaged.

As I get closer to doing my swap, I'm going to give them a try on my stock frontend, converted to R&P.

-Jeff
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Old Aug 12, 2008 | 06:59 PM
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Originally Posted by Jeff64
Has anyone tried these? http://www.ssheaders.com/muscle.htm

I was told #5207 fits tight to the block, and would work with most any front end with a R&P. I was also told I could try them for fit, and return them if they aren't damaged.

As I get closer to doing my swap, I'm going to give them a try on my stock frontend, converted to R&P.

-Jeff

Has anybody tried these or the s&p ?
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