I have a chance to buy a set of headers for my 63 XL Boxtop 4 speed that a friend is not going to use. They are Hooker # 520-6205. I would like to replace the stock log manifolds but don't want to make a mistake because of a good price. Any recommendations/experience good/bad?

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Mickey Thompson's 63 1/2 #997 S/S Hi-Rise 427 Lgt/Wgt Galaxie,
1957 C-600 Cab-over carhauler w/390-4V, 2-speed rear-end
FGCofA member #4908
MCGC member #75

"There will ALWAYS be an FE in my LiFE"

Yes, they do. Is that a problem? Leaks?

I have a set on my '64 Galaxie, although they may be a different part number. Two tubes removeable on pass side and only one on the drivers side. Never have problems with them, although there is a little noise from the connections, but very little. They seem to have a rattling sound to them at idle (900 rpm), but it's a neat sound. I can most always tell when a car is running these headers.

R&Ring the pass side is very easy, especially if you're using a starter like Robb Mc., although you do need to raise the front of the engine about 2-3", which is no big deal. OEM starter not recommended for several reasons. Drivers side can be a real pain though considering the equalizer bar and all.

I had to cut off a piece of the fwd upper control arm shaft bolt on the pass side if I remember correctly.

........#3 & #4 exit the engine bay, they wrap around the frame. I've never had any trouble removing the stock FE starter (basically a 390 starter), LOL, Rod.

Mickey Thompson's 63 1/2 #997 S/S Hi-Rise 427 Lgt/Wgt Galaxie,
1957 C-600 Cab-over carhauler w/390-4V, 2-speed rear-end
FGCofA member #4908
MCGC member #75

"There will ALWAYS be an FE in my LiFE"

Good point. I forgot about that. I had to cut the rear of the drivers inner fender too for the back tube.

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Mickey Thompson's 63 1/2 #997 S/S Hi-Rise 427 Lgt/Wgt Galaxie,
1957 C-600 Cab-over carhauler w/390-4V, 2-speed rear-end
FGCofA member #4908
MCGC member #75

"There will ALWAYS be an FE in my LiFE"

Thanks to all for the input. I think I will pass on them. I would rather not cut any panels. I have kept all original parts that I have replaced and body part cutting is not something I would prefer. I'll look for some shorty's.

.........headers. IMO, if you want to save your current inner panels, pull them off, set them aside, and get some panels that you can cut without remorse. I think Crites' 'glass inner panels should cost less then just one cast iron shorty, Rod. BTW, I'm more about saving money, even if it's someone else's, LOL.

Mickey Thompson's 63 1/2 #997 S/S Hi-Rise 427 Lgt/Wgt Galaxie,
1957 C-600 Cab-over carhauler w/390-4V, 2-speed rear-end
FGCofA member #4908
MCGC member #75

"There will ALWAYS be an FE in my LiFE"