Photo (1) is the right (passenger side) header. Photo (2) is the left (driver side) header. Notice the distance from the upper control arm cross-shaft bolts. The left side has plenty of clearance. The right side is extremely close. The right, rear bolt had to be shortened about 1/4" just to get the header installed.
These are Hedman HTC 68198. Hedman tech line tells me they have never heard of any clearance problems in this area. I think this is too close. Maybe a defect in how the tubes for this particular header were bent, or the wrong header slipped in along the way? Any other opinions?
When I compare this to my 1971, with Hooker Competition headers, the number 4 and 6 pipes are tucked closer to the block, allowing about the same clearance as on the left side.
As long as the motor is centered I wouldn't worry about it. Take measurements from the frame rails to the center of both the trans and crank. The dimensions won't be exactly the same. You're looking to compare an offset measurement if not completely centered.
Interesting that some have suggested that the engine is not centered. Would be great to see some comparison measurements and/or pics. Would measure my '70 but it's apart right now.
I'll take measurements when I get home, tonight; however, I don't remember anywhere to make adjustments on the frame towers or engine mounts. The frame towers bolted straight to the frame, with no slots for movement. The engine mounts the same way - no way to adjust.
I'll take measurements when I get home, tonight; however, I don't remember anywhere to make adjustments on the frame towers or engine mounts. The frame towers bolted straight to the frame, with no slots for movement. The engine mounts the same way - no way to adjust.
Friend worked in a frame shop. Chevelle # 1 rear ended another car striking the rear with its driver front. This caused massive damage naturally but not damage that couldn't be repaired supposedly back to factory tolerance specs. It was discovered after straightening that the frontal collision had moved the engine towards and down lower on the passenger side about a 1/4 of an inch via an almost unnoticeable buckled cross member engine frame mount area on one side and raised frame mount on the other of the cross member at the driver side.
Doubt this is your issue but just wanted to offer it up.
I think the lack of a steering column & shaft is exaggerating the view of the engine offset. Once the steering shaft & column are in place, I think it will look normal. I had 2" Hedman headers on my 71 and passenger side was close to the A arm bolt also.
It is very important before putting too much work into the frame to check it for “frame sag”. Frame sag occurs with age and use of a vehicle. It effects the front-end alignment. If a frame is sagged too much, you can tell if the front-end alignment cannot be achieved and all the shims under the front upper control arms are out from between the c-arm shafts and the frame. By measuring the distance between the c-arm mounts you can see how much your frame has sagged. A new frame measures 32”. A frame that measures 31-3/8” is too close. You should have at least 31-3/4” to start with. You can get away with offset shafts if it is not closer then 31-3/8” but the best fix is to take it to a frame shop and have them pull it back out to 32” while you have it apart. If you are using stock c-arms there is a concern with the clearance as frames sag, between the c-arm shaft bolts and steering shaft and the exhaust manifolds or headers on big blocks.
RickH. I have the same headers on my 69 BB. Just went out and looked and took some measurements. Mine looks just like yours except on the pass. side my bolt to the rear of control arm has 3 or 4 threads cut off. giving me 5/8" clearance to header..3/4" clearance at pass. frt. bolt./ On drivers side have 1 1/4 clearance at frt. bolt and 1 1/2 at rear bolt.
Ken, I have about the same clearance as you measured on the driver's side.
My passenger's front is about 1/4", the rear barely clears after cutting 3 or 4 threads.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Team Chevelle
5.1M posts
115.6K members
Since 1998
A forum community dedicated to Chevrolet Chevelle owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about restorations, builds, performance, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more!