1955-56 V-8 headers Mockup

Posted by Craig Hendrickson On 2013/6/18 12:47:41

As promised, here are some digipix of the completed Driver-side mockup. The mockup is to determine:

1) feasibility (can it even be done?)
2) best pipe configuration
3) clearance of known stock subsystems

For this mockup, I used 1-1/2In and 2In I.D. PVC pipe, 90-deg and 45-deg PVC connectors, some duct tape for non-standard bends and 1/2In plywood for the header flange. This is a "conservative" approach because the 1-1/2In I.D. PCV pipe is actually 1.910In O.D. and the 2In I.D. PCV pipe is 2.385In O.D. Since the mild steel pipe is measured O.D., the planned 1-3/4In end pipes and 2-1/4In center (siamesed) pipe are smaller than the PVC pipe. Therefore, if the PVC mockup fits, then the steel pipe prototype and production version will fit. The PVC connectors are even bigger. The steel flange will be 3/8In, so the same argument applies to the 1/2In plywood flange used in the mockup.

Click on the picture for a larger image.

Starter clearance:


Collector to stock exhaust pipe through frame hole:


Left side view:


Right rear view:


I have many other pictures if you have specific questions.

Next will be the mockup of the passenger side which should be a lot easier since there's no starter or steering gear box.

After that will be a prototype made out of mild steel. This will be used to make the production jig and check fitment on my 1956 400 and 1955 Patrician.

Craig