Installed the headers on my motor without having to ding them which really made my day after reading numerous posts about header fit. They were just an old pair of BlackJacks and I have no complaints except I'm wondering if they will fry my starter? The one primary tube comes within 1/2" of my selonoid on the starter. I actually had to pry the tube over just a bit with a screwdriver to get the wire terminal on the outside post so I know I'll have problems. What have you guys done to solve this problem? It's my first pair of headers and I already am expecting to get some good Taylor plug wires after I fry the stock ones I've got on now!

My headers are also very close to my starter, but I've never had trouble. One thing that makes a big difference in my opinion is using a good quality starter. I use a new one (not a reman) from a GM dealer. Pricey, but 5 years now with no trouble.

Scott
just to CYA
I'ld install a Thermo-Tec heat shield
(summmit # THE-14150) and avaiable thru most of your local parts stores,
you may have to ask for it.
"cheap" insurance ! ;)
Rick

Scott,I've never had a problem with the 'ole Blackjacks or Dynomax/Summit headers with any of my big blocks..yeah,they're close to the starter,but again,never any problems with heat soak,slow starts,etc.As far as plug wires go,stick with the straight boots on big blocks,and you don't need any fancy or expensive wires.

Scott,if you run into any hot start problems just get a H/D high heat solenoid with the H/D solenoid spring which i use on my fresh high torque BBC starter.

Then also get the special solenoid heat shield that attaches directly onto the solenoid it's self
which would still clear your headers. I have seen these special/custom starter/solenoid heat
shields in O.P.G which i also use on my fresh high torque stater BBC.

I also use a 800CCA battery,stock alt coverted to 80 amps and never have any hot start problems since i got all the stater system components
freshened up.

Scott

Scott,

I had problems with my headers (1969 Chevelle, 396 (really a 402)), before I put the stock exhaust back on. My starter and wires use to get hot enough to slow up the starter quite a bit. I had Blackjack header on at that time. I use to have to sit for an half hour or so before I could start the car. The grounds and cables were solid, and the starter was new. Just to be safe, I would put on the heat shield and maybe a heat sock over the wires. This is what I did to get around the problem. But, like the other guys say, maybe you won't have a problem at all.

Fred.

Thanks for the replies fellas. I think I'll take my chances and see if I run into any heat soak problems before I do anything. No news from me will be good news. But for those who suggested precautions, you guys can say "told you so" when I post on here in a few weeks that my starter got fried!! Wish me luck.
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