Inside the frame rail headers

[tfrag]

I have an '86 CJ with an AMC 360 swapped in. Currently running Hedman headers outside the frame rails with side pipes, but I'm looking to swap the headers a pair that run inside the frame rails so I can dump the exhaust out the back and install rock sliders where the side pipes are. Any thoughts on the correct inside the frame rail headers that would work with this set-up? Have called all the usual suspects (Summit, Morris, Jegs, etc.) and they couldn't figure it out.

 

[jp360cj]

What couldn't they figure out? All you should need is a set of CJ AMC V8 headers.

FWIW, I'm in a similar boat with the 360, fenderwells, and side pipes. I plan to go back to OEM exhaust manifolds and run duals out the back corners


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[tfrag]

They couldn't figure out which hedders would give me inside the frame rail clearance. I'm thinking a pair of Hedman shorties will work. If that doesn't, then back to OEM manifolds.

 

[Petescj]

I know that Hedman at least used to make a set. Had them on a 78 CJ5 . I'm out camping right now but maybe I can get you some numbers from the ones on the CJ7 in my garage. I'll check Friday if you'd like.

 

[tfrag]

Sure. That would be great. Appreciate it.

 

[gert]

Try these, in the comments someone posted that they fit his CJ7 perfect


https://www.summitracing.com/parts/pte-h8600-1


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[tfrag]

Yep. Those are the ones I’ve been eye-balling, but in black.

 

[Petescj]

Sorry Man I didn't forget about you but didn't get a chance to look at the headers and I'm going to a wedding right now. Mine are full length not like the hugger style in the above pics. I'm definitely pulling that Jeep out of the garage tomorrow so I'll grab some pics then.

 

[Petescj]

Ok I was over and under the Jeep today looking for numbers on those headers. I came up empty. I was a little bummed about it so I did some digging and came up with an old 4wd hardware part # for them. The number is HED99200. That's for in frame Hedman headers for the AMC 304 -401.

There is an exception for that part number , not supposed to be used with an automatic Transmission . That's what I have. I believe it's due to the fact that the Transmission cooling lines from the radiator are extremely close to the outlets.

The starter is fairly close to them as well. From my experience about 20 years ago I got a complete dual exhaust system from pacesetter for my 78 CJ5 . Soon thereafter I lost the starter. Replaced it and within a few months it went again. My brother and I decided to install a small heat shield and I didn't have any more issues. May have been a coincidence but the headers definitely generate more heat.

If I was in your position I'd look for some good stock exhaust manifolds first. That can be difficult to find at times. Headers are more for top end horsepower and Jeep engines are more about low end torque. You'll also be able to use stock replacement exhaust components. Secondly I'd go with the block hugger style. That way the exhaust can be bent away from your starter as far as possible. The long tube style are the last pick of the 3. I'd only use them if you already had a good exhaust system in place where the headers themselves needed replacement.


Sorry for the long winded response. Please let us know what you come up with. I'd like to see the end result.

 

[tfrag]

Thanks for the intel. I also noticed the tight spaces around the Transmission lines, Transmission pan and starter. May be more trouble than it's worth and OEM manifolds may be the way to go.