Ok, for ultimate clarity: LT1 headers in a 69 Nova

[69LT1Nova]

So I did a search on LT1 headers in the forum, and found some information. It seems that everybody is just running standard SBC oval port headers on their D port LT1s. Am I just anal, or does it make the most sense to run D port headers on a D port exhaust? Gasket blowout problems?

Any suggestions for brands? I was looking at Street and Performance's LT1 specific headers, but $$$. Ouch. :doh: I'm running an AGR power steering box and don't want to clearance the box or the headers. I am interested in ceramic coated headers for low maintanence, and mid-length for ground clearance.

So, waddya say boys? :poke:

[Samckitt]

As you have found, some are expensive that match the D port. But I think you will find mostly that they don't exist for your application, that is what I have found. I am running a set of Hookers for the car, not the motor. Before I got the Hookers, I had Edelbrock TES headers, again for the car & didn't have any problems.

Try finding a set of full length 1 3/4", that don't go outside the frame, fit the D port heads, & will fit with a CV road race oil pan, in an 86 Monte SS. None exist, or they say they won't fit.

I have been told Hedman makes a set (but don't match the D port), but they are around $700 coated. Schoenfled makes a set that match the D port, but they say they will not fit with the factory AC box. I am about temped to buy the Schoenfeld ones to see for sure, they are $170, others have told me that they will fit.

Or go this route & make your own:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/D-port-header-flange-SB-Chevy_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1742Q2em153Q2el12 62QQcategoryZ33634QQihZ002QQitemZ120156241264QQtcZ photo

[69LT1Nova]

Hmmm... I'm not running A/C so the Schoenfeld sounds good to me! Have to research them. Yeah, I can see how you might be in a bind with a Monte Carlo (I had an 80 El Camino... so I'm very familiar with the G body platform and lack of parts). Any of the first gen Camaro guys have input? 1st gen Camaro = 3rd gen Nova.

[Samckitt]

I don't know if Schoenfeld will help you any. They mostly do racing headers & G bodies are ones used for dirt class & so on. And I don't think they do mid length ones. But check with them to be sure:
http://www.schoenfeldheaders.com/sbchevy.htm

[69LT1Nova]

Ah, poo! They don't make the right headers for me. Guess I just get to shell out $$$... welcome to Pro Touring! LOL!

[barno68]

Why are you set against runing oval port headers? They have a greater coverage area than is required for the D port heads, so there is no restriction issues. Also, you can get the correct headers for your car and you will be fairly certain that they will not hit your rails and components.

[69LT1Nova]

Not really set against it... just guess I'm crazy. Matching the D ports sounds like the right thing to do. Heck with it, I'm cheap! I'll run the oval port ones. Any advice on gaskets? I assume that I'd want to use D port gaskets at least...

[NEokcTERROR]

The D-port head into a round or oval header entry causes no loss of flow or velocity, and also doesn't seem to cause turbulence either. We have had them on the flowbench before.

[novaderrik]

Dynomax headers will fit- and they are about the cheapest ones you will find.
just don't get the ceramic coated Dynomax headers- i've personally had 2 sets that had the coating fall off, and have read about a number of others have that happen. just get the plain steel ones, sand the factory paint off, and spray a couple of thick coats of BBQ paint from Wal Mart on them.

[DeltaT]

I have had excellent results with Earl's Pressure Master header gaskets. They are nice because the graphite seals are replaceable separate from the aluminum frame, and the graphite inserts are easily trimmable with a sharp Xacto blade, and they don't leak.

Get gaskets that match the headers, test fit them, and trim where needed.

Jim