B-Body Header Installation Tips

B and D Body Headers Installation Tips

The following tips are for use with our TRI-Y, Quad-1.

  1. Start with a hot engine.
  2. Disconnect negative battery terminal.
  3. Remove stock catalytic converters, un-plug stock O2 sensors from plugs and disconnect EGR tube from passenger side manifold
  4. Remove alternator. (Accessory belt, 2 bolts going through accessory bracket, 1 electrical plug, 1 “hot wire” to battery and 2 metal brackets going to exhaust manifold).
  5. Passenger side: using pry bar or large flat head screwdriver, leverage metal heat shield/bracket away from the rear of the manifold and as close to the firewall as possible to allow better access to last manifold bolt. Remove stock manifold using basic tools (9/16” socket, 3/8” ratchet with various extensions and a cheater pipe (to slide over ratchet handle for breaking leverage). There are 6 bolts plus a couple nuts for the alternator brackets.
  6. Drivers side: Remove stock manifold using basic tools (9/16” socket, 3/8” ratchet with various extensions and a cheater pipe (to slide over ratchet handle for breaking leverage). There are 6 bolts.
  7. Using a wire brush or wire wheel and 90 degree air drill, clean the surface of the head around the exhaust ports.
  8. *A    Install drivers side header from above for TRI-Y’s and below for Quads. After header is in place and all bolts are tight, make sure the brake line near the bottom of the fender and the frame area are clear of the header tubes. If not, use a large pry bar or flat head screwdriver and gently leverage the brake line away by wrapping a towel or cloth around the end and inserting the end between the header and brake line. ¼” clearance is fine.
  9. *B  & *C     Install passenger side header from above for TRI-Y’s and below for Quads.
  10. Hook-up EGR tube to passenger header, install high-flow converters or extended hook-up pipes between headers and exhaust.
  11. Install alternator using at least the short bracket going to the stock stud in the first hole on the head. (In front of the header flange). Connect electrical plug, “hot wire” and belt.
  12. Connect negative battery terminal.
  13. Start engine and check for exhaust leaks.
  14. Drive car and have some fun.
  15. Check and re-tighten header bolts after every heat cycle for at least a week. Gaskets will compress and bolts need to be tightened to compensate.