1952-59 Ford Long tube headers 302 in a 53 customline

Hey everybody, i read the sticky faqs saw the shorty header referrals id like to stick with long tubes (dont we all) i have a 72 302 in my 53 had to pull the headers when i sent my c4 out to get rebuilt. I like the hp gain of the long tubes. I was raised shortys are just fancy manifolds. When i pulled them off i had definate exhaust leaks where the headers bolt to the heads. I put a straight edge across my header flanges and definatly have some issues. What im asking for is a good reference on some long tubes that i dont have to hammer on to clear the steering box. Only thing i dont like about the long tubes is the ground clearance issue. I know if i was tedious enough i could sand down the high spots and build up the lows with weld but id rather just order what fits.

 

The headers used in the "Sticky FAQ" are those used in early Mustangs and Fairlanes they hug close to the block and provide good steering box clearance. The issue with the long tube or Tri-Y header used for the same application is the frame cross member located right behind the engine block where the exhaust p***es through the oval holes in it the header is just to long to clear it. If you have a long tube header that fits those applications and you want to butcher the collector to align with it,then go for it. Since both the Hedman and the Patriot shorty only require about 12"-14" of 2.25 tubing to p*** through the cross member the gain with a longer tube would be minimal about 7-10 HP max above 3500 RPM so if your primary use for the car is as a driver or highway cruiser it isn't worth messing with it. The weak link in the SBF is not really exhaust headers it's the cylinder head flow so if you are still running stock heads you won't gain anything.

 

I had that same issue with my 65 mustang. I just cut the flange in 3 places and bolted each pipe directly to the head. I had no more issues after that and sold the car like that. It's worth a try.

 

Thanks guys. Unfortunately i still have stock heads, which is a shame cause i have an old offenhauser port o sonic intake collecting dust. I was thinking about cutting the flanges right in the center. I think im gonna go ahead and order the shortys

 

Went with the headmans. Blasted them in my cabinet and put a coat of clear vht on them. Just picked up a new bat, got my plugs gapped just gotta slap it all back together