OK, so im in the process of putting a 351W into a 1968 coupe but there is a problem with the exhaust. Because the 351 is about an inch taller in the deck, this causes the block to come out wider, and the drivers side exhaust manifold is hitting the steering box before it sits down on the motor mounts. Does anyone know about any headers in the aftermarket to cure this problem that are reasonably priced?? I know hooker has some super comp headers for this but they run about 600 bucks USD. Is there anyway i could make the original ones work?? I have the original manifolds that exit straight out the rear. I know there is a 351W manifold that exits down the side for this in a later model, but would it be hard to come by or expensive if i did find one?? Also, would the headers for a 302 in the same car work?? i know the exit down the side like they need to, but i dont know if they would clear as in the 302 application they would have more room. Any help is appreciated.

 

I have a 351W in my 68 fastback. At first I had the original exhaust manifolds on it that came with the 302 premium fuel. When one of them broke, I installed a set of after market headers. I do not remember having problems with steering box with either setup. I did have problems with the clutch linkage and the power steering cylinder.
Are your engine mounts too low? Just a thought.

 

do you have some dimensions or pictures i could see to compare??

 

I can not remember what brand of headers I have, but they are full length. I found the receipt from Carolina Mustang, but it does not say what brand. The front 2 pips tuck in to avoid the steering box and the third goes up over the forth for clearance. The header has about ¼ inch clearance with the steering box.



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