Long tube install, whats easier?

[lancec2c30]

I've got my engine torn down to the short block in the car. My H/C/I came in today, but my longtubes won't be in till next week.

So I was wondering if it's much easier to drop the headers in place before putting the heads on? Do you get to avoid loosening motor mounts and what not?

Or should I just throw the top end on this weekend and wrestle the longtubes in next weekend?

Thanks.

 

[ID89GT]

I would do the top end kit now, then do the headers. They really arent that bad, you might have to lift the motor a tad to get the passenger side in but other than that they should slip right in. At least for me they have

 

[new46stang]

I'd like to add a question to your post if I may.

I will be dropping a new motor in soon and was wondering how difficult it would be to have the engine fully assembled with long tubes and stuff it in. Is that possible? Anyone done it that way before?

 

[stykthyn]

Put the headers in the engine bay and drop the motor in between them. Won't fit wwith theb headers already on.

 

[90lxcoupe]

What brand headers? are you using head studs?

 

[Kdubslugga]

I'd go ahead and do your top end kit. Headers really arent that big of a deal. Like stated, I always losen the motor mounts and jack the motor up a few inches and they slip right in. Also i highly recommend using a matching companies shorty H-pipe, to avoid any leaky exhaust issues. Trust me its worth it!!

 

[larrym1961]

I'd go ahead and do your top end kit. Headers really arent that big of a deal. Like stated, I always losen the motor mounts and jack the motor up a few inches and they slip right in. Also i highly recommend using a matching companies shorty H-pipe, to avoid any leaky exhaust issues. Trust me its worth it!!

I second that! Been there and done it!

 

[lancec2c30]

Bbk, with a bbk mid pipe, just using arp bolts. Got the top end together today, so we'll see how it goes.

 

[Uber88GT]

With a scattershield I had to place the headers before dropping the engine, especially on the drivers side, as my headers needed the steering shaft to go through.

You'll probably learn a few new swears doing it with the engine in....