Exhaust Header for Chevrolet Caprice (1971-1987) 4.4L 5.0L 5.7L 6.6L

High-Flow Stainless Steel Shorty Exhaust Headers for 1971-1987 Chevrolet Caprice (B-Body)

What it Does: The shorty exhaust header replaces the restrictive cast iron factory exhaust manifolds on the 1971-1987 Chevrolet Caprice to evacuate exhaust gases faster, reduce parasitic backpressure, and optimize cylinder scavenging.

The Stock Chevrolet Caprice Exhaust Flow Restriction

Factory exhaust systems on third- and fourth-generation B-Body platforms relied on heavy, restrictive log-style cast iron exhaust manifolds. These factory castings feature abrupt 90-degree internal turn radii and unequal runner volumes, creating severe exhaust gas reversion and turbulent backpressure. Over decades of thermal cycling, stock cast iron manifolds become prone to structural warping, cracked webs between runner ports, and stripped flange studs, causing persistent exhaust leaks that degrade low-end volumetric efficiency and rob the engine of power.

The Engineering Solution

Engineered for small-block Chevy platforms, these shorty headers feature an 8-2 lightweight configuration crafted from high-grade stainless steel. Mandrel-bent 1-5/8" primary tubes ensure uniform wall thickness and laminar exhaust velocity directly out of the cylinder head ports. The primaries merge into smooth 2.5" collectors to optimize pulse tuning and throttle response. Structural rigidity is maintained with heavy-duty 7/16" CNC-machined cylinder head flanges and 3/8" outlet flanges, assembled using precision TIG and MIG welding to eliminate flange warpage and guarantee leak-free seal integrity under high thermal loads.

What's Included

• 1 Set Stainless Steel Headers (Left & Right)
• 1 Set Mounting Accessories (collector reducers, gaskets, bolts, and washers)

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 1971-1987 Chevrolet Caprice with Small Block V8 (4.4L 267 ci, 5.0L 305 ci, 5.7L 350 ci, 6.6L 400 ci) 2WD models only
• Compatible with Chevrolet Gen I Small Block V8 displacements: 262, 265, 267, 283, 302, 305, 307, 327, 350, and 400 ci
• Excludes 4WD/AWD conversions, Big Block V8 engines (396, 402, 427, 454), and V6 applications

Frequently Asked Questions & Fitment Warnings

Does this fit the B-Body Caprice?

Yes, this is a direct fit for the 1971-1987 Chevrolet Caprice equipped with the SBC Gen I engine. Will not fit 4WD/AWD models, Big Block V8 engines, or V6 configurations.

Are modifications required during header installation?

While designed for standard 2WD clearances, slight exhaust tubing or hanger adjustments may be required depending on steering shaft, starter, and transmission crossmember clearance.

The Chevrolet Classic Muscle Caliber

Freeing up the exhaust path on your small-block Chevy revitalizes classic American V8 muscle, delivering an authoritative exhaust note and immediate power throughout the rev range.