1952-59 Ford Has anyone used the headers from Crites for 55-56 ford with FE engine?

I have a 56 fairlane with a 390/c6 and I'm looking for headers. The ones from Crites are $230 cheaper than the fpa alternatives. But I haven't seen a pic or any info on them. Has anyone here used them?

 

While not an FE I just received my Crites headers for a 460. They use slip tubes so two go around the front of the motor mount and two behind. From initial inspection I kind of like how the #8 tube comes up around the steering box. I am hoping this will help with the power steering box clearance but I am purely speculating. The crites header was also available in a larger primary tube because of this. The FPA unit is only available in 1 3/4" IIRC due to the steering box clearance.

Crites Kit


FPA header clearance


I believe the FE is a bit narrower so they might not have the same problem. I called FPA and asked if they had any pictures and they sent me about 10 of them so if I were you I would call and see if they have any FE pictures available.

Pros/Cons
A couple things I do not like about the FPA header is they are this goofy try Y header design. Also they don't believe you need big header tubes to make big power and I disagree with that 100%.

The crites are slip fit design where the tubes come to the collector. Some people don't like that. I read somewhere that you have to modify or remove the factory X brace under the car. I'm not sure but wouldn't be surprised and it is really in a goofy place that headers usually occupy.

FPa header

 

I realize they are different motors (460 vs FE) but is the same frame and the headers are going to occupy the same realestate so besides flanges I wouldn't think they could be that much different. If I get a chance tomorrow I will bolt the 460 header on the motor to give you an idea what it looks like.