I'm getting ready to install my 396/TH400 into my chevelle. Should I put the headers in the engine compartment tied off to the sides before I put the engine/trans in? OR should I install the engine/trans then worry about the header installation?
Thanks

I installed the engine and trans, then installed the headers.Had to remove the bolt through the motor mount and raise the engine about 4" one side at a time.I didn't want to chance bending them up with the engine hanging over them.

I lay mine in first. I've R&R the engine several time by myself doing it this way. Just keep an eye on them and move them as needed.

I put mine in just before lowering the motor the final 6". If they're coated, leave them in the bag to reduce scratching. They look SWEET! Did it last night @ 1:30 !!

I always do all mine with the headers in the car first...

I will usually wrap them with old towels, moving blankets or what ever to protect them...

With a big block, I have never been able to get the drivers side in or out while in the car. Lower control arm, crossmember and oil filter boss always got in the way, even with the car really high (on jack stands though)and the motor completely unbolted...

Thanks everyone. I will try putting the headers in first. Good suggestion to wrap them with something or leave them in the plastic and to wait till the last 6 inches or so to put them in. Thanks a lot everyone graemlins/thumbsup.gif

Wrapping them and stuffing them the last few inches is the way to go in my experience. But lets take it one step further: Hopefully you won't have to ding them to make them fit. so before you finally bolt the block in snug the headers down to check for clearances. Nothing worse than having turned in the rented Cherry picker to find out the headers need some massaging in order to be bolted up.