I use the Hedman 1 5/8" Ceramic coated headers. I've never had an issue with them hitting anything or needing to be dented. If I had to do that i would consider those headers to fit incorrectly and try a different brand. I've never tried Hooker headers. But i'm on my 2nd pair of Hedman (first ones were painted, upgraded to ceramic coated) and both pairs fit great.