[midget66]

I have a pontiac 400 with 7K3 heads on a 79 firebird. I would like to go ahead and put headers on while I'm installing a TH400 and new motor/trans mounts. The problem is that this head does not have outside bolt holes for the headers. I have read articles that suggested drilling and tapping new bolt holes and some that said a good gasket material and hi-temp sealant work great. Has anyone run across this problem before? There is not enought head on the front of the motor to drill and tap new holes not including the need to pull the motor. Help!

[BOBCRMAN@aol.com]

The only cure is to drill and tap these heads, there is enuff material there, but you have to pull the heads to do it rite, there is no miracle cure for this, less of course you enjoy leaking backfiring,headers. Thank GM's brilliant design staff for the idea, wonder how much money they saved?

[Grusome Goat]

The 7K3 heads can be drilled and tapped for headers but you will also need to fabricate small spacers due to the ends of the head are offset. If this is not done the headers will not seal up properly and will leak no matter what you do. DO not try to do this with the heads on the engine, and be careful not to drill to deep as you could get into a water jacket in the head.