I got my headers in today. The heads are still on the workbench, and just to keep the threads from rusting, i have the cheapy full-length plugs in them. Just to see what they would look like with the headers on. The passenger side is no problem. I might grind off the tip of that tab on the header flange that sticks out near the plug, but otherwise, no problem. I could probably even use my straight plug wire boots. Now the driver side is the problem. The plugs stick straight out toward the bottom of the header tubes. There is about 1/2-3/4" clearance between the tube and the tip of the plug. Bear in mind that the headers are being held up with one hand, camera with the other, and no gasket. I will definitely need angled boots and the Accel "Shorty" header plugs, and even then, will have to take the header off to get the plugs in and out. Has anyone ever found a thicker exhaust gasket, or used 2-3 together to give a little more space between the head and headers? I could use the extra 3/8" or so. Maybe there is a header spacer? I notched out the shock towers 3" on each side today, so I think I have plenty of space for the headers under there now.
You could always pick up a bare header flange and use it for a spacer. You could buy one new, or you could find an SBF header that is junk and salvage the flange.
SPD (Special Products Design) 1-888-778-3312 might have the spacers you're looking for. For us who use the 6208 headers, a .375" spacer is required to have the headers clear the starter (and the DS of the block I believe) on a 302 block. Their website = http://www.exhaust.com. I like Ratio's idea (wish I would've thought of that before) see also http://mmb.maverick.to/attachment.php?attachmentid=1826 in this thread http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=3049&page=3&pp=20&highlight=spacer
one thing you might do is get the insulated covers for the wire and plugs near the exhaust. there available from summit or jegs. i use them on mine with the 6901's.
I hate to ask this question, I will sound like a dork, but a thrifty dork... Would there be any harm in running the stock plugs on one side with my straight plug wires, then 4 shorty Accel plugs with 90 boots on the other side? I don't know the heat readings on the two plugs, and do not know if there would be any harm in mixing them. At $13 each, I really don't want to buy all 8 unless I have to. And really, the stock plugs and straight boots are perfect for that driver side. Woderful fit. Too bad both sides don't fit that way. It would be optimal! Of course, if I put angled boots on the driver side, it would keep the wires away from the pipes even more...
You can run the short plugs just where you need them, that's what a lot of guys do. They are the standard heat range.
Personally, I don't see where there would be any 'harm' in doing it that way. All that the cylinders need is a good spark - no matter how it gets there. (imo)
Cool, That saves me quite a bit of money. Those shorty's are $12.99 each. That saves me over $50. Also, if I remember correctly, there was a one-piece flange on the stock header/manifold that was with the heads. That guy said he would sell them to me for $25 (each or pair, don't remember which, probably pair). Grind off the tubes and I have 3/16" spacers. Would this cause interference with any other part of installation, or am I just better off loosening the header on that side to remove plugs? If I get them, should I use them on both sides? Seems like, similar to the plugs, as long as the fire can get out, an extra 1/2" travel shouldn't affect the performance. Just not sure if all that extra stuff will fit under the hood.
