The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop fitting headers on a '59 with a 283

In December I became the owner of a '59 Apache 31, half ton stepside. It has a 283 V8 and is mostly stock, but it does have headers.

I tracked down an exhaust leak where the left header bolts to the cylinder head. That's when I noticed that somebody had beat on the left header with a hammer to dent it so it would clear the steering box. So I decided to replace the headers, thinking that they were probably wrong for the truck anyway.

My local parts store ordered Hedman #69260, which is supposed to fit 55-66 trucks w/ small block V8s. I verified the number myself on Hedman's site.

I was surprised when they arrived because they looked exactly like the ones that were on there (that don't really fit). I measured as best I could, and to me, the headers didn't look like they were going to clear that steering box.

But what do I know? So I took it to my exhaust man to have him install the headers, and he also concluded they won't fit.

Has anybody else had this experience? Does somebody make a header that actually works?

Thanks,
LT

LT - take those headers to the parts store and get your money back. You do not need full length anyway. I don't know where Hedman headers are made but it sounds like they are cheap made, and did not get it right! Something isn't right here as there is alot of difference in frame width and steering box position, engine heigth between the frame rails and clearences between the 55/59 and the later 60/66 trucks. Anyway there are several quality brand headers on the market, and block huggers are what you need. You will need 1 1/2" drop to a 2 1/2" or 3" collector. If you had a big inch SB you would go with 1 5/8", but think the 1 1/2" should be just right with the 283. Some quality brands are Sanderson, Thorley, Borla, Gibson, and Jardine. Don't cheap out, buy quality stuff. They can be had painted, chromed, stainless, or ceramic coated. I always buy the stainless as it will last longer than the engine and the truck and will not corrode. Go with a quality exhaust behind them and you will be set up just fine. Go to - www.sandersonheaders.com

Chevyman,
I'm taking your advice. The headers went back to the parts store, although they weren't happy about it (being a special order), and we have not yet reached a satisfactory settlement.....

But I checked out the link you gave to sandersonheaders, and they have the block-huggers. The headers for a 55-59 are different on the left vs. right, so it gives me some confidence they have actually designed them for my truck and they will clear the steering box.
Thanks again
LT