Anyone build headers before?

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Low mount, but the 225 is taking the place of a 230 flathead on an M37. The initial attempt is going to be a glorified tubular exhaust manifold. Based upon this conversation that is unfolding, I am keeping it simple.. IF I am happy with the results, I might try again and get more complex in design. Long tubes would be nice, but not yet, and only if I have fun the first time!
Post some pictures, I’d love to see it. If you can find a set of the low mount Clifford shorties used, I’d bet it would be good starting point. They really hug the block, and tuck in really well on the early A bodies which has the least clearance to the steering box of all of the car lines.

If you are set on building something, I think that is a good idea to start with a log manifold like @mopowers which I have seen in person and they look great.

From my personal experience of modifying the stock manifold, I think pretty much no matter what you come up with will be an improvement. I will be following along.
 
I’ve built three sets of headers in my life and after every one I said “I’m never doing that again”. It’s an exercise in futility and if there is a set already made for your application don’t waste you time. BUY THEM. If there isn’t a shelf option then have at it and try to enjoy it, you won’t, but try.
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If you're going to do it, I'd think a slant would be the best case scenario with all of the room you'd have available. Not exactly a header per-se and not a slant, but I did make up a set of custom tubular logs for my BB early A-body. I did it mainly to train myself for when I attempt a set of proper long tubes when I build the stroked big block for it. Here are some progress photos, for what it's worth. I say go for it and good luck! Your imagination is your only limitation.

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Very impressive,,,,,sort of like a tubular exhaust manifold .
I really like that !
If would seem like that could be mass produced very reasonably ?
I would go to a larger diameter tube after the first lead in,,,and then go larger still after the last cylinder .
Then keep it the same size to the hookup,,,maybe 2.25,,,,2.5 ?
Made like headers,,,and manifolds ?
The style reminds me of factory hi-perf manifolds .

Tommy
 

It helps to have pipe fitting/welding by trade.
My first and only set, very time consuming, about a week per side and I`m never in a hurry when it comes to building stuff for myself.

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Post some pictures, I’d love to see it. If you can find a set of the low mount Clifford shorties used, I’d bet it would be good starting point. They really hug the block, and tuck in really well on the early A bodies which has the least clearance to the steering box of all of the car lines.

If you are set on building something, I think that is a good idea to start with a log manifold like @mopowers which I have seen in person and they look great.

From my personal experience of modifying the stock manifold, I think pretty much no matter what you come up with will be an improvement. I will be following along.
Yes it is probably going to be something as simple as possible. At the same time I have never thought or even imagined that low mount cliffords would be an option.. so maybe that is the answer right there...

I'm going to stop reading the realistic experienced opinions that suggest it is a misery bath, and see what I can come up with... AND go about finding some pictures of the short cliffords, just in case I want more power after the improvements that the tubular exhaust manifold show.. (kidding, I realize there is not much to be found... )
 
When I made my 2 into 1 pipe assembly for my Clifford shorties, I bought some band clamps and cut holes in the bands. I could securely clamp the pies in place but still reposition them as needed. Once I got things positioned, I could tack weld them and then move on to the next section. When complete, I could pull them out of the car and finish welding them. Much easier than trying to weld things in the car.

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