I have run hooker headers on multiple applications with no issues. My 6901 are on stock heads and the fit perfectly with no modification. You can't blame hooker for the issues if you are using aftermarket heads. I am sure the hookers were designed years ago for stock heads.
Thorleys have their own issues with aftermarket heads, plus exit on the driver side is nowhere nearly optimum... With a C4 require trimming the bell housing and block plate, plus have clearance issues with steering sector...
In addition to aftermarket head issues, a column shift auto makes it all worse. Good luck and let us know what you decide! MD
You guys are making me feel better about having mine custom built. I will have no clearance issues (I hope). 304 SS mandrel bent
For gaskets check out some of the latest car mag adds. There might have been and add in Car Craft. Seems one of the reputable companies came out with the ultimate in headers gaskets. Can't recall if it was Mr. Gasket or Felpro. Anyone else seen the add? MD
Last couple sets of headers I installed got Copper gaskets. ZERO leaks, problems, etc with them. The ones on my 96 E150's 351 with GT40 heads ? The bolts are just as tight as they were 3 years ago when I installed them. The Hedmans on the Comet got copper gaskets as well last year. No loose bolts or leaks here either. If you want zero leaks and problems, spend the money for copper gaskets. And the issue people asking about with raised ports ? My Canfields have raised ports (.5 inch) and the Hedmans have no problem with that.
Just to throw this out there, I use Permatex RTV no leaks no loose bolts ever, haven't used header gaskets in years.
You should put a straight edge on the gasket surface ,every hooker header I've had they weren't straight. I had to surface to get straight they are usually way off. On the one side you have to jack up motor allitle bit to get in ,should fit though. For a header bult for Maverick the Doug thorly sure don't fit to good ,that's a poor exit on the one side you would think they would be better.
i have the hooker 6901s on my 302 with a C4. Had to convert to floor shift and had the have the headers modified. The pitman arm was coliding with the headers and i couldnt turn left... i took it to the local hot rodder exhaust guy and he cut a small section out of the pipe and gave it a different angle. only charged 50 bucks so theres that. i have heard of a lot of people who have had success with these. Honestly dont know what happened with mine.
