I don't know if the box is going to be the issue. Intermediate shaft, maybe?

 

Fyi, not sure if this is relevant to your situation, but just installed the 98 cherokee box on my 70 chevelle ss. . Went right in, however i had to buy a new rag joint. The spline on Cherokee box is smaller. Im installing a dorman coupler from oreillys part # 31011. . Hope this helps.

 

I’m concerned with placing that drivers side header on while sinking engine. Especially if long tubes and possible 2”.

 

Me too. Plan is for long tubes to get the increased hp. But, not 2". I do have 1 inch lowered springs but what I've read is that may not be a problem. I may go to shorties if the ps box is a problem and the long tubes drag.

 

As far as the Grand Cherokee box, it's a Saginaw and exactly the same dimensions as a Chevy box.

 

Hedman's says on thier web site that the headers won't fit with a saginaw 325 box. The grand cherokee is a series 800 box but I couldn't find out if its an 825.

 

I have coated Patriot 1 7/8" on a 590/600 489 that needed a Dimple due to me running a frame stand bolt Up from underneath, an old socket, piece of old broom stick or hardwood works good for any needed dimples, Summit brand has some good fitting headers, are you going to use coated headers?

 

Talk to the builder and see if he thinks 1 & 3/4 would be adequate. If so then I would get the Hedman 68198. They are great fitting, heavy duty, good quality,
I have 2 inch Lemons and although they clear everything they are extremely challenging to install.

 

After all that money on a great motor amd trans and it being an early model, I recommend lemons. or possibly ARH. I personally have lemons in 2 1/8 and they sit higher than bottom of oil pan and plently of clearance to change plugs and around steering shaft. No dimpling they fit PERFECT. I buy once and never think about it again Sure they are pricey but like your motor and trans, you get what you pay for.

 

I know! I was hoping for a comparable at a less price. Not likely! The last I checked Lemons was close to $1800. I do agree with you. Thankx foor the pep talk!

 

I’m very jealous of your engine/ trans combo. Will be a runner for sure.

 

Go with Lemons. Get the 2”. Best $ you”ll spend.

 

Dougs D322 is best fitting non custom headers I have tried.

 

I have hedman 68190 on a big block 65 with a 98 cherokee box. Had to make a few dents on the pipes to clear control arm but other than that, they fit great. Getting the drivers side in with the motor installed was a pain in the ass. Had to squeak it by the steering shaft. If I had to do it again id set the headers in with the motor