Headers to replace cast exhaust manifold on 57 T-bird

[Mal57bbybrd]

Hello, we are restoring a 1957 T-bird down under in New Zealand. We are starting to rebuild the engine and both cast iron exhasut manifolds have the outer ears broken off including part of the port. I see the price is around US$260 for each one from T-bird dealers. I also see adverts for Sanderson and FPS headers specific to 1957 T-birds for an all up similar figure.
Does anyone have experience using after market headers on a 1957 T-bird. Clearance on the drivers side is my main concern. Thanks for any help. Cheers Mal.:auto

 

[Dan Smithwick]

headers

I recently installed a set of Sandersons on my 57 . The driver side is tight
but quite duable . I had to really work the exhaust pipe to clear my clutch
assembly . The Z bar for clutch linkage was really
tight and I had to make a notch in the bracket that is bolted to the frame .
It is in and works .If you have automatic the job is a lot easier .

 

[Mal57bbybrd]

Hi Dan, thanks for your response. Do the Sanderson headers make any noticable difference to the drivability of the car and how does it change the sound of the engine? I have an auotmatic albeit later 4R70W. Just fitting the auto up with the adapter plate to y-block. Need to trim some 'ears' off the transmission and notch out the X member a little. Cheers Mal

 

[Dan Smithwick]

headers

I didn't notice too much change in performance but it did make it sound
more aggressive .

 

[Mal57bbybrd]

Headers

Thanks Dan.

Who did you purchse your Sanderson headers through?

 

[Dan Smithwick]

headers

I actually got them off ebay . I checked around and the deal was good
with free shipping . I will need to dig through my records to get a name
of the company .
Dan