looking at getting either some headman headers, or hooker competitions. they are almost the same price. anyone got reasons for one over the other?

I installed hookers within the last 60 days. No clearance issues at any point. Bought from Jet-Hot.

is the paint holding up on the headers or did it peel off pretty quick?

I sent some BMW motorcycle pipes to Jet Hot one time, they held up perfect, never did peal or discolor, coated inside and out. I was thinking of sending headers off my bird when I remove motor.

I have always had great luck with hookers!

Jet Hot coating is gauranteed. Mine are only 3 months old. My buddy's are 2 years old. Still look like new.

I just installed the Hedman Headers (with ceramic coating) on my 68' Firebird. No clearance issues anywhere.

Don't drip oil on that ceramic or it will stain when they heat up. I found that out the hard way.

what does the whole jet hot thing cost?

Normally you can find a local guy to do it for about the same as Jet hot. I paid $225 for my headers and $150 for the intake manifold. Just look up local powder coaters and give them a call. The guy who did mine offers a lifetime warrenty against cracking on new headers and a 5 year warranty on used.

Headers were $400 delivered.