Exhaust Header · SKU ESP-0002
EXHAUST HEADER MANIFOLD Truck Headers for 60-86 C-10 LS Chevy GMC LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS9 (conversion Swap)
A 1-5/8 inch mandrel bent 304 stainless steel exhaust header manifold for 1960-1986 C-10 Chevy and GMC trucks with LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS9 engine conversions. It replaces the factory manifold with a performance-oriented design that improves exhaust flow and fits the original engine bay. The header ships as a complete unit with a V-Band collector and port matched flanges for direct bolt-on installation.
- Material304 Stainless Steel
- SurfacePolished
- Primary Size1-5/8 inch
- Collector Size2-1/2 inch
What You Get
Key Benefits
- Mandrel bent 1-5/8 inch primaries maintain consistent bore size for better exhaust velocity and engine response
- 304 stainless steel construction resists rust and heat degradation better than cast iron or mild steel
- Port matched flanges ensure a smooth transition from cylinder head to header for improved flow efficiency
- V-Band collector allows quick removal for maintenance and provides a secure, leak-free seal
- Merge spikes in the collector reduce exhaust pulse interference and improve scavenging at high RPM
- Polished stainless steel finish enhances appearance and reduces surface drag on exhaust gases
Why Buyers Switch
Problems It Solves
- Factory manifolds restrict exhaust flow and limit performance gains from LS engine swaps
- Cast iron manifolds crack under thermal stress and fail during high-load driving
- Poorly matched flanges cause exhaust leaks and reduce engine efficiency
- Universal headers require cutting and welding, which increases installation time and cost
Where It Is Used
Application Scenarios
- Classic truck restorers upgrading a 1970s C-10 with a modern LS engine swap
- Performance shops installing LS conversions in vintage trucks where factory headers are unavailable
- Diesel and truck accessory wholesalers stocking bolt-on exhaust parts for LS swap projects
- Online sellers needing a vehicle-specific, photographed header with a clear fitment list
Buyers
Who It Is For
- Performance parts distributors buying LS conversion exhaust parts by the pallet
- Truck accessory wholesalers serving vintage truck owners with LS engine upgrades
Construction
Technical Features
- 1-5/8 inch mandrel bent primary tubes with consistent bore diameter
- 304 stainless steel construction with polished surface finish
- Port matched flanges for seamless cylinder head integration
- V-Band collector with merge spikes for improved scavenging
- TIG double side welded joints for strength and leak resistance
- Designed to fit original engine bay clearance without chassis interference
Data
Specifications
| Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Surface | Polished |
| Primary Size | 1-5/8 inch |
| Collector Size | 2-1/2 inch |
| Flange | Port Matched |
| Connection Type | V-Band |
| Welding | TIG Double Side Welded |
| Exclusion | Not for trucks with factory manifolds or non-LS engine configurations |
Material
Materials
- 304 stainless steel tube
- Polished stainless steel flanges
- V-Band collector ring
Manufacturing
How It Is Made
Tube bending using mandrel bender to maintain consistent diameter
Flange machining to match cylinder head port dimensions
TIG welding of flanges to tubes with double-side seam for strength
Assembly of V-Band collector with merge spikes
Polishing of all external surfaces to a uniform finish
Checks
Quality Control
- Flange port dimensions verified against cylinder head port template
- Weld seams inspected for pinholes and incomplete fusion
- Surface checked for scratches, dents, or polishing defects before packing
- V-Band collector tested for smooth rotation and sealing integrity
Private Label
Customisation Options
- Private label packaging and barcode labels on request
- Bulk cartons available for container orders instead of individual boxes
Comparison
Compared With The Alternatives
| Factory cast iron manifold | The stock manifold is heavier and restricts flow; this header improves exhaust velocity and engine output |
|---|---|
| Mild steel aftermarket header | Mild steel is cheaper but rusts at flanges and under the collector; 304 stainless lasts longer in harsh conditions |
| Universal cut-to-fit header | A universal header requires custom fitting and welding; this one bolts on directly with no modifications |
Installation
Use Guide
- Confirm the truck is a 1960-1986 C-10 Chevy or GMC with an LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, or LS9 engine swap
- Remove the factory manifold and clean the cylinder head flange surface before installation
- Install a new gasket between the header flange and cylinder head
- Torque the flange bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern to prevent warping
- Check the V-Band clamp for proper alignment and tightness after the first heat cycle
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Answers
Questions About This Part
Will this fit a 1978 C-10 with an LS9 engine swap?
Yes. The header is designed for 1960-1986 C-10 trucks with LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS9 engine conversions.
Is the flange already attached or do I need to weld it on?
The flanges are already attached and port matched. The header ships as a complete unit.
What size are the primary tubes?
The primary tubes are 1-5/8 inch in diameter, mandrel bent for consistent flow.
What material is used and why does it matter?
304 stainless steel is used for its resistance to heat and corrosion, especially in high-temperature exhaust environments.
What is included in the package?
One complete header with V-Band collector and port matched flanges. Gaskets and hardware are not included.
Can we get our own brand on the box?
Yes. Private label packaging and barcode labels can be arranged, and bulk cartons are available for container orders.
Is this street legal where I sell?
Emissions rules differ by market and we make no emissions approval claim for this part. Check your local regulations before resale.
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