The left-side exhaust manifold...
The left-side exhaust manifold lifted out easily without the need to remove the alternator, just the bracket mentioned previously. We were even able to leave the spark plug wires installed while removing the left-side manifold, but we did have to remove them and the spark plugs, on both sides of the engine, in order to position the new headers.
| DIFFICULTY INDEX ::: IIII |
| ANYONE'S PROJECT | no tools required | I |
| BEGINNER | basic tools | II |
| EXPERIENCED | special tools | III |
| ACCOMPLISHED | special tools and outside help | IIII |
| PROFESSIONALS ONLY | send this work out | IIIII |
The high-performance catalytic...
The high-performance catalytic converter from Random Technologies is more than just another replacement converter. In our discussions with the folks at Random, we were impressed with the depth of their knowledge in overall engine management and how it must be carefully integrated with various performance parts so everything works in harmony.
Parts ListStainless WorksC48591 '85-'91 Corvette headers plus Y-pipe/ThermalcoatNBC250 (4) accuseal high torque band clampEBC250 (2) accuseal wide high torque band clampRandom Technology191-30001 high-performance catalytic converter w/accy'sMid America Motorworks628-096 Corsa exhaust system cat-back603-930 catalytic converter hose kit614-559 (2) muffler insulatorsLocal speed shopARP header bolt kitHeader gasket setLocal Chevy dealerDipstick tube
Tools Of The TradeIn addition to everyday hand tools, such as screwdrivers, wrenches, and sockets, you'll also need:5/16-inch, 12-point, 1/4-inch drive socket for header bolts1/4-inch open end or box wrench for hose clamps for A.I.R. hoseTorx T-20 socketCut-off wheelImprovised spark plug wrench
Since our headers and mufflers...
Since our headers and mufflers are so pretty, we decided to send the extension and "Y" pipes to Classic Coatings for their chrome-like ceramic coating. The finish was spectacular and will inspire us to place mirrors under the car at shows to display the gorgeous finish on the entire exhaust system. We did notice some small balls of material in some of the inner nooks and crannies of the pipes, which seem to be leftover from the plating process. While they appeared harmless, we did take the time to remove them using a dentist's pick.
Since our '87 is equipped...
Since our '87 is equipped with aluminum cylinder heads, we cleaned off the old gasket material by pulling rather than pushing on a razor blade in order to prevent gouging the metal. The gasket surface needs to be perfectly clean to prevent leaks. We cleaned the last of the gasket material off with an abrasive pad, but we left the spark plugs in and also plugged the exhaust ports in order to keep abrasive particles out of the engine.
In anticipation of a snug...
In anticipation of a snug fit and to ensure the entire job was done with quality parts, we picked up a set of ARP header bolts from our local speed shop.