[Scarebird]

I am running the Pypes 2-1/2" exhaust with the earlier RA manifolds - I have a hell of a time getting the nuts on the exhaust studs (did it today in fact).

Not sure if the newer RA 2-1/2" manifolds have a different stud pattern for more clearance.

[Jerry H.]

I've been running the RARE manifolds on my 65 since 2009. I'm running the original engine block and heads. I can't compare to tube headers as I've never had any on this car. What I can comment on is the ease of installation and the fitment. I purchased the installation kit (bolts) from RARE and used the locks on the corners and I've had absolutely no problems. No leaks, etc. I have all stock suspension, etc. and have had no problem with any clearance anywhere. I also used their gaskets. I can't speak for Ccass's product because it came to market after my purchase but I'm sure it is comparable, if not better, than the RARE product.

[leeklm]

As mentioned by others, the RA manifolds will save you a lot of curse words when installing, changing oil filter, starter, etc. Regarding power, my first motor in the 66 (455) was putting out 400hp with the RA manifolds, and 409hp with full length headers. This was in a back-to-back test on the engine dyno. On that same car, i installed KRE heads and was doing about 113mph in the qtr with those same RA manifolds, so they will flow some air.

While I did go with headers in my 73, I many times 2nd guess that decision!

For example, I am on my way out to the shop now to track down a potential header leak from a tick-tick-tick sound...

[redhawk44]

Thanks Leek, for pointing out all of those advantages. I am definetly going this route.

[Ccass]

Originally Posted by tom s

Chris,covered you in second post!Tom

I missed that at the end. All I saw was 'RARE was the only way to go'

Gotta earn our wings. I get it.

[tom s]

I said RA not RARE!LOL

[Skip Fix]

Originally Posted by Scarebird

I am running the Pypes 2-1/2" exhaust with the earlier RA manifolds - I have a hell of a time getting the nuts on the exhaust studs (did it today in fact).

Not sure if the newer RA 2-1/2" manifolds have a different stud pattern for more clearance.

I have them (2.5") on the 400 in the 81 and one of the nuts on the driver's side I can not tighten as it is too close to the tube.

[Murf]

I used Allen head bolts instead of studs & nuts. Ball head Allen socket works good. YMMV.

Murf

Sent from my Z936L using Tapatalk

[Scarebird]

Originally Posted by Skip Fix

I have them (2.5") on the 400 in the 81 and one of the nuts on the driver's side I can not tighten as it is too close to the tube.

Exactly - need to use an open end wrench to tighten.

[misaac]

Made this wrench for nuts at the flange.

[unclescratch]

I have headers on my '65. When the chassis moves down and the tire rises in the wheelwell, the upper control arm rotates inward and touches the header tube. I shaved a little metal off of the control arm and now the control arm moves with adequate clearance. No other issues other than shaving a little metal off the bellhousing for room to change my Baldwin oil filter. Have never had flange bolts loosen-up causing the tick-tick exhaust leak. I always clean both thread surfaces and Loctite the bolts in. Also using those graphite gaskets. Don't even want to think about changing the starter!!!!! HotRodding, sheeesch!

[66beaumont]

Just bought pipes manifolds and 2.5 street pro system. Should be delivered today,will report once it's installed,hopefully tomorrow

[redhawk44]

Got mine ordered, but it wont be here for another week or two. Beaumont let me know how the install goes please.

[66beaumont]

Originally Posted by redhawk44

Got mine ordered, but it wont be here for another week or two. Beaumont let me know how the install goes please.

Who you order through. Summit had excellent prices on all of it

[redhawk44]

I have been dealing with Paul at RAMAir. he has answered a lot of questions I've had . Good to do business with him.

[66beaumont]

Received my Pypes street pro exhaust and Pypes ram air manifolds this morning. Got right to it,manifolds fit excellent,had to raise right side of engine a couple inches and remove starter otherwise very straight forward. Exhaust system fit very well also,just had shorten down pipes and touch up the flanges with a rat tail file to fit between manifold studs. Had job completed in 6 hours with a couple beer breaks and lunch. Looking forward to test drive tomorrow. R/A manifolds are very nice pieces. Picked up everything from sSummit for $715

[redhawk44]

That's great to hear that they fit so well.

[MD79TA]

Guy what are the prices with the install kits? Who is selling them? Would be for my 68 gto 12 d port heads . And these are 2 1/2 correct? Also I'm confused on brands? RARE or ram air same or two different companies. And is it true summit has complete kit? I didn't think Ames did ? Doug

[redhawk44]

Not sure about the others but I got mine from Ram Air Restoration Enterprises.
I think that is where the RARE comes from. Here is the site I got them from

http://www.ramairrestoration.com/pon...port-head.html

[MD79TA]

I see two sets for the 68 one for 349 the other 419 not sure what the difference is? Maybe the 419 are round port? I have the front fenders and inner fenders off and was just about to start bolting thing up when my son told me happy father day order what ever set of manifold you want . Guess I did ok . Thank for advice just want to get the best I can without going crazy. Motor is rebuilt and peaks out around 360 hp and 460 lbs torque at crank so this will be nice addition to the replace the old small valve manifold logs that were in it from 1972 motor before I put this engine in . I would think easy install with fenders off and will call company in morning to get correct set with install hardware . Going in my automatic 68 GTO convertible. Doug