1971 Wagon - Headers & Exhaust

Stainless headers for the Wagon were purchased. Our 502 Crate motor has square ports so we will change the flange to accept it.

The first thing is to make a template of our heads. We made it out of stainless 18 gauge sheet.

Then a thick flange was made in 304 stainless to match our template.

We then cut off the old flange to start the surgical procedure. As the motor would not flow very well with unmatched ports.

As seen a major difference where the pen shows. We tacked the headers to the flange and then tapped the pipes to fit the flange as seen on the next one to the right.

Then we clamped it all in place.

Tig weld all pipes in solid.

All tigged up and somewhere to go. Time to fit.

They fit great and will now flow. Time for cosmetics.

We also fabbed some custom gaskets because none are available. It is irritating to say the least that a Header MFG would sell pipes that do not flow/fit right and then they also do not make any gaskets. Welcome to the world of custom car building and restoration.

All fits nice 3 inch all tucked up inside.

Jack scotch bright cleans the surface down for no imperfections.

Then a trip to the 80 grit aluminum oxide cabinet.

Glass bead next for a final finish.

See the difference side by side.

Close up shows a nice looking pipe.

Mock up starts with 3 inch tubes in place. Ready to exit past custom cut outs in the rear bumper.

Correct bends are needed for clearance off all components