Which headers for a stock 302 w/ C4?

[Jeff B]

Not an engine guy (yet) but I know my exaust system is SHOT! I would like to run headers and some Flowmasters. Where I live finding good smart people to work on my rig can be challanging. I found a good exaust guy (it's all he does) that said he would do the work. He did warn me however, if the headers don't fit, I have to pay him anyway.

So here's my questions:

1) Which headers would fit my 74 Bronco with a stock 302 with C4 tranny without ANY problems?

2) Which type are best for durability and performance?

3) Where can I get them for the best price?

4) Do I have to stick with a vendor or can I get them at my local auto parts store (Advance Auto-Autozone-Napa)?

5) Want to get some Series 40 (site recommendation) Flowmaster mufflers but is there a SPECIFIC type or model number? I saw some cheap on Ebay but there are several SERIES 40 and I want to make sure I get the right ones! Sent e-mail to seller with same ? but no response.

6) What size pipes would work best with this set up and should I put a "crossmember" pipe between the dual exaust for better flow?

one more comment, I may want to upgrade the engine later for better perfomance. I'm not sure where to start in this area (any suggestions are appreciated) so the exaust would need to be compatible with that as well.

THANKS FOR ANY HELP AND ADVICE!!!

JB

 

[wildbill]

There a lot of good headers out there its what do you want . I run hooker wheel well typ they were on the 302 and then put in a 351W and they work on it also. If you go with hooker MAKE sure they didnt come from mexico they are crap get good old USA also duffs sell's then and most speed shops have them. I dont like ordering them I like to see what Im getting first. Doug thorley make a very good header a little $$$ but a very nice fit ect. Headman I would recmand chrome or other coating HPT ect as so they dont rust good luck.;D ;D ;D Bill %)

 

[orangemoneypit]

I run headman headers on my 351w and c4 setup. I coated them with por-20 to prevent rust. It seems to work but, I only used 1 coat (should have used 2) so it is peeling in some spots. I am going to wrap the headers in exhaust wrap soon because the headman run hot.

 

[cro_bronco]

If you plan to keep your Bronco for a long time spend the extra money for good headers. The thicker the the tubing the cooler they will run. I agree on the coating thing, get chrome or ceramic coated headers they hold better. Also you want a thick flange where the header meets the head or you'll be changing gaskets all the time. I am running Wild Horses chrome headers, very nice for the money. I think I paid about $189 for them. They have 3/8 flanges, chrome plating and a dome style collector(no collector gasket!!!). JBG sells some very nice headers as well. Ultras I think they are called. Just make sure you can get the starter out without having to unbolt the pass. side header. Good luck!

Oh, i would suggest 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inch pipe. The inlet/outlet positions depends on how they will be mounted under your truck. As for modifications, next would be carb and intake, then maybe a cam upgrade. Once again good Luck!

 

[MI-Bronco]

I'm using Duff's ceramic and like them a lot (pic attached). Don't but their dual exaust though. I also have a '74 w/302 and C4. Headers went on without a problem. I do recommend you have a muffler house put on your pipes from the header back. Get some pipes that won't rust.

 

[MI-Bronco]

Thought it was attached....

 

[Unregistered]

I talked to several old-timers before I bought my headers. Most said it didnt matter who, as long as they are Bronco-specific. Out of the 6 or seven, a few had tried more than one make, the L&L Ultra-Flow headers were highly recommended. They have the thickest flanges (1/2 inch), are nickel-plated 1 1/2 inch 14 gauge tubes into 2 1/2 collectors. They look really pretty in the box. Hopefully, I will get my engine done soon. I also pre-bought SS flowmasters (delta 50 or 60s series), so she will purr. I am not sure yet about the crossover on dual exhaust. I have heard that it is beneficial for low end torque, but it is conjecture at his point. I am still researching that and whether a cat or dual cats will rob me of the power I am adding (1976-so, technically, I am supposed to have a cat). I would think that dual cats couldnt hurt with 2 X 2 1/2 inch exhaust; its still only a 302, right?

 

[broncnaz]

I run Hooker super comps ceramic coated they are fenderwell type they run outside the frame easy to install hard to run a crossover pipe so I dont have one they are a little more than most headers but are well built my first set lasted more than 20 years and they were uncoated these should last twice that long

You can get high flow cats that dont restrict flow and still be legal

 

[SteveL]

the hedmans fit nice on a 302 with a c-4. I tried to get a set on my 351 with 4 spd and they hit the linkage. They are nice and cheap at summit. They also sell the flowmasters for a pretty good price. I would try to get em jet hot coated. I have a pair of the duffy ceramics on our 66 with 351/4spd and they fit nice, but the coating only lasted about a month before it started flaking off.