[Ghetto Jet]

I finally got my 350/200-4R combo in my other Caprice(86'). The passenger side header is hitting the boxed area on the frame where the bushing for the control arm is housed. The headers are full length, ceramic coated Hookers. I know I'm going to have to "modify" the header so it will clear. I don't want to damage the ceramic coating. My question is about the strength of the coating, will it chip if I hit it will a hammer? I could also heat the part of the header I need to change with the torch, but will the heat cause the ceramic coating to come off? I'm trying to figure out a way to do this with the least about of damage to the coating I paid for.


Thanks for any ideas, input, or suggestions.


Mike

[Jmark]

If the headers were advertised as fitting your specific car, take them back! I bought Hookers for my 77 truck and they fit like crap! Back in the day, I had Hooker fender well headers on my 72 Bronco and they were perfect, but most Hookers are made in Mexico now and the quality and "fit" suck.

If you cannot take them back, bending or hammering on them will crack the coating.

[Ghetto Jet]

No turning back now, to make the other header fit I already modified the driver side brace that connects the frame to the control arm. The return period is also over.

[killerformula]

tough situation. Take a pic, maybe that will help us to help you. You can't notch the frame and maybe weld a support on the other side of it? I would talk to the manufacturer of the header before you mess it up. Don't talk to the chump you get the first time if he won't make it right, talk to his higher-up. If he wants to be a ***** about giving you a one for one exchange, maybe you could mention that your voice is heard by the largest hotrod site on the internet...

K

[Ghetto Jet]

I bought them from Jegs, I still have the box, receipt, and other paperwork. I'll call them after I eat breakfast and see if they will replace the one giving me the most trouble. Thats a good idea to use this board as leverage if necessary. I took pictures for you guys, but someone didn't put the cable that connects to the digital camera to a usb port back when they were done with it and I can't find it.

[4 Jaw Chuck]

Sell the headers and buy another set that fit, easiest way to do it and likely the cheapest way out while still getting what you want.

[Ghetto Jet]

Sell them? 4Jaw they are designed for my car so they should fit. I doubt I could get much of my $330 back if I sold them, not many Caprice owners would be interested in buying a pair of ceramic coated headers, let alone ones that don't fit.



Anyway, I called Jegs, they said they will call Hooker on Monday to see if they have been getting many complaints about fitting from this part# from other customers. If Hooker doesn't want to replace them directly Jegs will take them back and give me a new pair. I'm really glad I called.

[crazy larry]

jegs is going to make it right?

wow!!! miracles never cease!!!!!

[willys36@aol.com]

The ceramic coating is more like an electroplating. Using the time tested method of 'nudging' parts of a tube to fit around obstacles will work just fine, the coating will still be perfect. Best way is to use a big socket between the hammer and the tube so the dent looks factory made.

[Ghetto Jet]

Glad you're back Willys, and thanks for the information.

Well I feel kind of stupid, yesterday when I checked to see if the passenger side header fit correctly I left the plugs I had in the exhaust ports on the heads in. Giving me a false fit, obviously. I guess I was so excited the motor was in I wasn't thinking strait. I checked the fit again today without the plugs and I do clear the that part of the frame. I only need to cut out a little bit on the frame/control arm brace to get a perfect fit.

So far today I got the second header installed, transmission linkage hooked up, drive shaft in with new u-joints, new starter in is, as well as a new fuel pump and light weight fuel pump push rod.


Thanks guys.

Mike