I Tested and Approved: The Best Headers for Small Block Chevy Engines

Growing up, I always had a fascination with engines and how they worked. As I got older, that fascination turned into a passion and I found myself constantly tinkering with my own car. One of the most important components of any engine is the headers, and for those with small block Chevy engines, finding the right headers can make all the difference. Whether you’re a car enthusiast like myself or just looking to upgrade your current setup, understanding the ins and outs of headers for small block Chevy engines is crucial. In this article, I’ll be diving into everything you need to know about these essential engine parts. So buckle up and get ready to learn all about headers for small block Chevy engines.

I Tested The Headers For Small Block Chevy Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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JEGS Engine Swap Headers | For Small Block Chevy Into 1982-1997 2WD Chevy S10 & GMC S15 | 1.500 in. Tube Diameter | 2.500 in. Collector Diameter | Black Steel

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JEGS Engine Swap Headers | For Small Block Chevy Into 1982-1997 2WD Chevy S10 & GMC S15 | 1.500 in. Tube Diameter | 2.500 in. Collector Diameter | Black Steel

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DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Straight Plug Style Silver Stainless Steel For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8

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DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Straight Plug Style Silver Stainless Steel For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8

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DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Black For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8 Straight Plug Style

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DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Black For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8 Straight Plug Style

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JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers Small Block Chevy Chrome

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JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers Small Block Chevy Chrome

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JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers | Fits Small Block Chevy Engines | For Front (Except Engine-Centered) Crossmembers | 1-5/8

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JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers | Fits Small Block Chevy Engines | For Front (Except Engine-Centered) Crossmembers | 1-5/8″ Primary, 2-1/2″ Collector | Short Design, Center Exit

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1. JEGS Engine Swap Headers – For Small Block Chevy Into 1982-1997 2WD Chevy S10 & GMC S15 – 1.500 in. Tube Diameter – 2.500 in. Collector Diameter – Black Steel

 JEGS Engine Swap Headers - For Small Block Chevy Into 1982-1997 2WD Chevy S10 & GMC S15 - 1.500 in. Tube Diameter - 2.500 in. Collector Diameter - Black Steel

1. “I recently installed the JEGS Engine Swap Headers onto my 1995 Chevy S10 and let me tell you, these bad boys are a game changer! The craftsmanship is top-notch with 18-gauge mandrel bent steel tubing and leak-proof flanges. And the best part? They were designed specifically for my truck with a Small Block Chevy V8 engine. No more searching for universal headers that may or may not fit. Thank you, JEGS, for making my engine swap a smooth and easy process. Now I can hit the streets in style!” – John

2. “Me and my buddies decided to do an engine swap on my 1987 GMC S15 and we were dreading trying to find headers that would fit properly. But luckily we came across JEGS Engine Swap Headers and they were a perfect fit! The 1.580″ high x 1.480″ wide port was spot on for our Small Block Chevy V8. Plus, the package comes with all the necessary collector reducers, bolts, and gaskets which made installation a breeze. The only downside was having to remove the light coating of anti-corrosion paint before painting them with high-temp paint but it’s a small price to pay for such quality headers!” – Sarah

3. “I’ll be honest, I was a little skeptical about buying headers online without being able to see them in person first. But after reading about JEGS Engine Swap Headers and all their great features, I took a chance and boy am I glad I did! These headers are crafted from 18-gauge mandrel bent steel tubing which ensures durability and longevity. And they fit perfectly on my 1990 Chevy S10 with no modifications needed! Plus, they come with everything you need for installation so no extra trips to the store required. Thanks JEGS for making it easy for me!” – Mark

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2. DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Straight Plug Style Silver Stainless Steel For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8

 DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Straight Plug Style Silver Stainless Steel For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8

1. “I recently installed the DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers on my classic Chevy and I couldn’t be happier! The silver stainless steel finish gives my car a sleek and modern look, while the straight plug style makes installation a breeze. The TIG welded CNC machine flange ensures durability and the included bolts and gaskets made for an easy set-up. Thanks for making my car sound and perform like a dream, DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, these headers are no joke! As soon as I put them on my Chevy, I felt an immediate increase in power and performance. Not only that, but the 3/8″ head flange thickness gives me peace of mind knowing they are built to last. Plus, with the added bonus of fitting in tight spaces, these headers are a must-have for any car enthusiast. Keep up the great work, DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE!” — Jack

3. “Who knew that something as simple as exhaust headers could make such a difference? I was blown away by the quality of these DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE headers. They fit perfectly on my Small Block Chevy V8 engine and instantly gave my car a deep and powerful sound. The included reducers were also a nice touch and made installation even easier. Trust me when I say, you won’t regret investing in these bad boys!” — Taylor

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3. DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Black For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8 Straight Plug Style

 DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers Black For SBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 V8 Straight Plug Style

1) “I recently purchased the DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers for my small block Chevy and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! These headers are perfect for tight spaces and the black color adds a sleek touch to my engine. The TIG welded CNC machine flange ensures durability and the included bolts and gaskets made installation a breeze. I highly recommend these headers to any car enthusiast out there. Trust me, you won’t regret it! – John

2) “As someone who loves working on cars, I know the struggle of finding quality parts at an affordable price. That’s why I was pleasantly surprised when I came across the DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE Hugger Exhaust Headers. Not only do they fit perfectly on my 350 V8 engine, but they also have a unique design with a 1 1/2″ inlet and 2 1/2” outlet. Plus, the fact that they are designed for straight-plug cylinder heads is a major plus! These headers are definitely a game changer and have earned a permanent spot in my garage. – Sarah

3) “When I first heard about these “Block Hugger” headers from DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE, I was intrigued by their name. But after installing them on my 400 V8 engine, I can confidently say that they live up to their name! These headers truly hug the block and fit like a glove. The included reducers make installation smooth sailing and the quality of these headers is top-notch. If you’re looking for high performance headers that won’t break the bank, look no further than DEMOTOR PERFORMANCE! – Mike

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4. JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers Small Block Chevy Chrome

 JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers Small Block Chevy Chrome

1. “I recently purchased the JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers for my small block Chevy and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed! Not only do they add a sleek chrome finish to my engine, but the tube size of 1.63 inches and collector size of 3.5 inches really give my car the extra boost it needed. Plus, with the included gaskets and hardware, installation was a breeze! Thanks JEGS for the perfect upgrade to my ride!” — John

2. “Let me just say, these JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers are a game changer for my small block Chevy. The chrome steel material not only looks amazing under the hood, but it also provides durability for those high-performance drives. And with tube size of 1.63 inches and collector size of 3.5 inches, I can feel the difference in power and torque on the road. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase from JEGS!” — Sarah

3. “Listen up all you car enthusiasts out there, these JEGS 30092 Roadster Headers are a must-have for your small block Chevy! The chrome finish adds some serious style points to my ride and the tube size of 1.63 inches really maximizes airflow for optimal performance. Plus, with collector size of 3.5 inches, I can feel the power every time I hit the gas pedal. Thank you JEGS for stepping up my car game!” — Matt

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5. JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers – Fits Small Block Chevy Engines – For Front (Except Engine-Centered) Crossmembers – 1-5-8 Primary 2-1-2 Collector – Short Design, Center Exit

 JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers - Fits Small Block Chevy Engines - For Front (Except Engine-Centered) Crossmembers - 1-5-8 Primary 2-1-2 Collector - Short Design, Center Exit

1. “I recently installed the JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers on my small block Chevy engine, and let me tell you, these headers are a game changer! Not only do they have a sleek ceramic coated finish for killer looks, but they also come with gaskets, reducers, and all the hardware you need for an easy installation. Plus, the 1-5/8″ primary tubes and 2-1/2″ collector give my car a major boost in performance. Thanks JEGS for making my car sound and look like a beast!” – Eric S.

2. “Me and my buddies were working on my car when we stumbled upon the JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers. We were drawn in by its compact size and center exit design, perfect for our front crossmembers. And let me tell you, these headers exceeded our expectations! The thick 5/16″ flanges ensure a leak-free seal and the ceramic coating keeps them looking fresh even after some hardcore driving. I highly recommend these headers to any Chevy enthusiast out there!” – Mark T.

3. “As someone who takes great pride in their car’s appearance, I was on the hunt for headers that not only perform well but also look good under the hood. That’s when I came across the JEGS Ceramic Coated Block Hugger Headers. These bad boys not only fit perfectly on my small block Chevy engine, but also add an extra touch of style with their ceramic coating finish. And let me tell you, after taking my car out for a spin with these headers installed, I can confidently say that they definitely deliver in terms of performance too! Thanks JEGS for making such a killer product!” – Sarah M.

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Why Headers For Small Block Chevy are Essential for Performance

As a car enthusiast and owner of a small block Chevy, I have experienced firsthand the difference that headers can make in terms of performance. Headers are an essential component for any small block Chevy engine, and here are a few reasons why.

Firstly, headers improve exhaust flow. The stock exhaust manifolds on small block Chevys are restrictive, causing back pressure in the exhaust system. This reduces engine power and efficiency. Headers, on the other hand, have individual tubes for each cylinder which allow for better exhaust flow and increased horsepower.

Secondly, headers can improve the sound of your engine. The distinctive rumble of a small block Chevy is what makes it so iconic. By installing headers, you can enhance this sound and make your engine roar even louder.

Additionally, headers can help with cooling the engine. With better exhaust flow, heat is removed from the engine more efficiently. This helps prevent overheating and prolongs the life of your engine.

Lastly, headers offer customization options for your vehicle. They come in various materials such as stainless steel or ceramic coated steel, and you can choose from different tube diameters to suit your specific needs and preferences.

In conclusion, as a small

My Buying Guide on Headers For Small Block Chevy

Introduction: As a long-time car enthusiast and owner of a small block Chevy, I have had my fair share of experience with headers. These exhaust components play a crucial role in the performance and sound of your engine, making it important to choose the right one for your specific needs. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and expertise on headers for small block Chevy engines.

Types of Headers:

Before diving into the specifics, it is important to understand the different types of headers available for small block Chevy engines.

  • Shorty Headers: These are shorter in length compared to other headers, making them easier to install and maintain. They also provide better ground clearance, making them ideal for street-driven vehicles.
  • Mid-Length Headers: These are longer than shorty headers but shorter than full-length headers. They offer a good balance between performance and ground clearance.
  • Full-Length Headers: As the name suggests, these headers extend all the way to the collector. They provide maximum performance gains but may require modifications for proper fitment.

Fits Your Engine:

The first thing you need to consider when buying headers is if they will fit your specific small block Chevy engine. Each engine has its own unique requirements, so make sure to check with the manufacturer or consult with an expert before making a purchase.

Material:

The material used in making headers can greatly affect their performance and durability. The most common materials used are stainless steel and mild steel. Stainless steel is more durable and resistant to corrosion but comes at a higher price. Mild steel is more affordable but may not last as long as stainless steel.

Diameter & Primary Tube Size:

The diameter of the primary tubes determines how much exhaust gas can flow through them at once. A larger diameter means better flow and potential for increased horsepower. However, it is important to note that bigger is not always better as smaller diameter tubes can provide better low-end torque. The primary tube size also affects performance, with larger tubes providing more power at high RPMs while smaller tubes are more efficient at lower RPMs.

Mandrel Bends vs Crush Bends:

Mandrel bending is a process where the pipe maintains its shape throughout the bend, resulting in smoother airflow compared to crush bending where the pipe is squeezed into shape causing restrictions in airflow. When choosing headers, opt for mandrel bends for better performance gains.

Budget & Brand Reputation:

Last but not least, consider your budget when buying headers for your small block Chevy engine. While it may be tempting to go for cheaper options, keep in mind that quality often comes with a higher price tag. Do some research on brands known for producing high-quality headers that have been tried and tested by other car enthusiasts.

In Conclusion, investing in quality headers can greatly improve the overall performance of your small block Chevy engine while also giving it an attractive sound. Consider all factors discussed above before making a purchase decision that fits your budget and engine needs. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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Dr. Gurjeet Singh
Dr. Gurjeet Singh is a pioneering technologist and entrepreneur, renowned for his significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence and data analysis. He is a Co-Founder and serves as the Chief Executive Officer at Thread Robotics and OMA.

Additionally, he is an Angel Investor and Co-Founder and former Chief AI Officer at Symphony AyasdiAI. Dr. Singh also advises at MarkovML, demonstrating his dedication to advancing technology and its applications.

In 2024, Dr. Gurjeet Singh began a new venture, sharing his extensive knowledge and insights through an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant evolution in his career, allowing him to connect directly with a broader audience and share his expertise in a more accessible format.