72Qsam, the 6915's are about the easiest to install header wou will ever own. First thing, if it's in the way, remove it, don't try to work around it. Makes that patience last alot longer.
You may want to pull the cowl to shock tower braces, makes life alot easier, especially if this is your first time.
BE SURE to reinstall them when you're done!!
Check to see that all bolts slide into the flange holes easily. You may have to clearance (ding) the tubes for the upper bolt on #2 & #6.
Get a selection of 7/16" sockets and wrenches. I use a normal 7/16" combo wrench, a long 7/16" box wrench, and 7/16" sockets, both deep and shallow.
Use the Hooker gasket supplied. I have used (and re-used) them many times. Most other aftermarket 4V gaskets are larger than the exhaust port, which will cause the headers to leak horribly. Also, check the welds on the port flanges to ensure they are flat, if not, hit them with a flat file.
Passenger side header can go in from the top, provided you do not have A/C, in which case the hoses MAY interfere....
Driver side has to go in from the bottom. Remove the clutch Z-bar, and the backdrive rod to the column (both auto and manual). This is the hard side, so have patience. If you have P/S, I'd unbolt the pump and lay it aside as the front lower on #5 can be a bear otherwise.
Don't tighten any of the bolts until you have all of them in.
I've installed the gaskets both dry and with a sealer. Last set went in dry, no problems as of yet. If you must use sealer, I recommend a copper based hi-temp, such as UltraCopper or MegaCopper.....
After you get the headers in and start the motor, let it run for 10 minumtes or so let cool for a bit and then go back over the bolts one more time. I would then check them one more time in about a week, then at every oil change.....
2 1/2" is just fine for a street/strip car. Flowmaster makes a beautiful system for the 65-73 Stang (they list it as 65-66, which is wrong), $320 at Summit. This is totally complete with hangers, clamps, the new 40 series mufflers and the most beautiful set of mandrel bent aluminized pipes you'll ever see.
If you get aggravated, take a break and go get a soda. Remember, it's just nuts and bolts....
Good luck, and if you need any more assistance, let me know...
[This message has been edited by Hemikiller (edited 04-10-2004).]
posted 04-10-2004 12:07 AM
