So I was doing a radiator flush yesterday and as I was standing over the motor I noticed a slight tick. So I guess it's header gasket time. Honestly I hate my headers. The driver's side is so low that it bottoms out on bumps and they are a bear to replace. I'm not sure they are worth the 5-10 hp I'm getting and it's not like I'm racing this car or anything and I'm sure they raise my under hood temps. I'm sure this topic has been covered ad nauseum but I searched and didn't find much. 1967 coupe, casting #62 heads on a 400 with the edelbrock performer RPM intake and cam. Non AC, power steering. 2.5" exhaust collector back.

1. Would you recommend staying with headers and if so do you have a favorite.
2. Are the D port long branch manifolds the way to go?
3. What do you guys run?

You are quickly going to find very enthusiastic recommendations for Ram Air style long branch exhaust manifolds that many others have found to have eliminated many of the header pains you are talking about.

Since I went full-tilt, just under 500 hp, chromed-out 455 motor transplant, anything short of headers would be silly. So I went all out for powder coated (inside AND out) Dougs headers that I find fit really well, look great, and the dual ceramic coating really holds down exhaust temps. But they are also pricy.

I have stock manifolds....no "extra" hp to speak of , and I dont race...but on the streets I get "there" as quick or quicker anyway! lol