I’ve got a 68 with a big block going together. Will the brake distribution block be in the way with headers? I don’t have the brake parts yet and the motor is still on the stand. I just need to know if i should go a different route before i buy the parts. I believe i’ve heard of clearance issues maybe heat issues? Thanks
68 bbc headers vs distribution block
scotty_t
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I’ve got a 68 with a big block going together. Will the brake distribution block be in the way with headers? I don’t have the brake parts yet and the motor is still on the stand. I just need to know if i should go a different route before i buy the parts. I believe i’ve heard of clearance issues maybe heat issues? Thanks
FWIW , I have ancient (1990's)Hooker 2" comps on my 70 and I had to move the block to the top of the frame rail . Seems i've read a number of members having that and other fitment issues. I've read a # of good posts on the site here about it . I 'm sure you will get good feed back from those that have more current headers than mine .
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I had factory 4 wheel drums with a BB and 2018 headman 2x3 headers and the dist block was a non issue. It was factory mounted.
Rick
Rick
It is a "REAL ISSUE". The shape and direction of the #7 tube is where the concern lies. For example if you compare the shape and direction of the following two headers - it becomes quite clear:
![Image]()
DOUG'S D316-B (1-7/8")
![Image]()
PATRIOT HEADER H8024 (1-7/8")
On my '68, I started with the H8024 (listed above) and have a fitment issue with the #7 exhaust tube sitting against the brake distribution block. I've since had the #7 tube "modified" (cut, reshape, rewelded) and the headers are currently at the coaters. As a side note - there was also a fitment issue against the stock steering column shaft and the #3 tube. It was just a little too close for my comfort. I've since modified the steering shaft for the necessary clearance.
Please note that these "issues" are with the 1-7/8" in my particular car/set-up and that your results may vary.
Looking back - I think I would have tried the DOUG'S D316.
Good Luck with your '68!
Kent
'68 Malibu ZZ502/502
DOUG'S D316-B (1-7/8")
PATRIOT HEADER H8024 (1-7/8")
On my '68, I started with the H8024 (listed above) and have a fitment issue with the #7 exhaust tube sitting against the brake distribution block. I've since had the #7 tube "modified" (cut, reshape, rewelded) and the headers are currently at the coaters. As a side note - there was also a fitment issue against the stock steering column shaft and the #3 tube. It was just a little too close for my comfort. I've since modified the steering shaft for the necessary clearance.
Please note that these "issues" are with the 1-7/8" in my particular car/set-up and that your results may vary.
Looking back - I think I would have tried the DOUG'S D316.
Good Luck with your '68!
Kent
'68 Malibu ZZ502/502
Joined
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286 Posts
ThanksIt is a "REAL ISSUE". The shape and direction of the #7 tube is where the concern lies. For example if you compare the shape and direction of the following two headers - it becomes quite clear:
View attachment 798716
DOUG'S D316-B (1-7/8")
![Image]()
PATRIOT HEADER H8024 (1-7/8")
On my '68, I started with the H8024 (listed above) and have a fitment issue with the #7 exhaust tube sitting against the brake distribution block. I've since had the #7 tube "modified" (cut, reshape, rewelded) and the headers are currently at the coaters. As a side note - there was also a fitment issue against the stock steering column shaft and the #3 tube. It was just a little too close for my comfort. I've since modified the steering shaft for the necessary clearance.
Please note that these "issues" are with the 1-7/8" in my particular car/set-up and that your results may vary.
Looking back - I think I would have tried the DOUG'S D316.
Good Luck with your '68!
Kent
'68 Malibu ZZ502/502
If its a driver just use manifolds
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It’s going to be a driver with headers
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One of the more regrettable purchases I've made was Hooker 2455's. Total disaster - had to move the distribution block, and one of the headers collectors point down which throws the whole exhaust sys off. The Hedmans that were on prior fit MUCH better.
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What I did with my 67 was to use a mounting bracket from a 6 cly. car and raised it up.
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I have these on my BB and no fitment issues.
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286 Posts
So they do clear the distribution block?
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yes
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Thank you
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