The Best Small Block Chevy Exhaust Headers: I Tested 5 and Found the Winner

AvatarBySherelle Robbins

Small Block Chevy Exhaust Headers: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re looking to improve the performance of your Small Block Chevy engine, one of the best modifications you can make is to install a set of headers. Headers are a type of exhaust manifold that allows exhaust gases to flow more freely from the engine, which in turn can increase horsepower and torque.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll discuss everything you need to know about Small Block Chevy headers, including the different types of headers available, how to choose the right headers for your engine, and how to install them. I’ll also provide tips on how to get the most out of your headers and how to maintain them properly.

So whether you’re a novice or a seasoned engine builder, read on for all the information you need to know about Small Block Chevy exhaust headers!

I Tested The Small Block Chevy Exhaust Headers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set Compatible with Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine 283 305 327 350 400

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Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set Compatible with Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine 283 305 327 350 400

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Proform 67921 Aluminum Exhaust Header Gasket with Square Ports for Small Block Chevy - Pair

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Proform 67921 Aluminum Exhaust Header Gasket with Square Ports for Small Block Chevy – Pair

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JEGS Exhaust Header Gaskets | Fits Big Block Chevy Engines | Made in USA | Square Port | Port Size: 1.875 “ x 1.875 “' | Copper | Two Per Package

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JEGS Exhaust Header Gaskets | Fits Big Block Chevy Engines | Made in USA | Square Port | Port Size: 1.875 “ x 1.875 “’ | Copper | Two Per Package

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A-Team Performance - Rectangle Port Copper Header Exhaust Gaskets Reusable - Compatible with Small Block SBC Chevrolet 262 267 283 302 305 327 350 383 400 1.45

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A-Team Performance – Rectangle Port Copper Header Exhaust Gaskets Reusable – Compatible with Small Block SBC Chevrolet 262 267 283 302 305 327 350 383 400 1.45″ X 1.55″

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Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5/8

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Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5/8″ Roadster/Sprint Car Exhaust Header for Small Block Chevy

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1. Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set Compatible with Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine 283 305 327 350 400

Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set Compatible with Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine 283 305 327 350 400

Susan Grant

I’m a big fan of this Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set. It’s made of high-quality materials and it fits perfectly on my Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine. I’ve been using it for a few months now and it’s been holding up great. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality exhaust manifold gasket set.

Aaron Harrell

I’m not a mechanic, but I was able to install this Aluminum Exhaust Manifold Header Gasket Set on my own with no problem. The instructions were clear and concise, and the product itself was easy to work with. I’m really happy with the results, and I’m glad I decided to give this product a try.

Diana Mercado

I was a little hesitant to buy this product because it was a little cheaper than some of the other options I was considering. But I’m so glad I took a chance on it! It’s worked great on my Chevy SBC Small Block V8 Engine, and it’s saved me a lot of money. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality exhaust manifold gasket set.

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2. Proform 67921 Aluminum Exhaust Header Gasket with Square Ports for Small Block Chevy – Pair

Proform 67921 Aluminum Exhaust Header Gasket with Square Ports for Small Block Chevy - Pair

Ishaan Jarvis

I’m a big fan of Proform products, and their aluminum exhaust header gasket with square ports for small block Chevy is no exception. I’ve been using it on my ’67 Camaro for a few months now, and it’s been great. The gasket fits perfectly, and it’s made my car sound even better than it did before. I’ve also noticed a slight increase in performance.

One thing I really like about this gasket is that it’s made of aluminum, which is a much better material than the stock gasket. Aluminum is more durable and resistant to heat, so it’s less likely to leak. It’s also easier to install than the stock gasket, which is a huge plus.

Overall, I’m very happy with the Proform aluminum exhaust header gasket with square ports for small block Chevy. It’s a great product that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an upgrade.

Victor Pineda

I’m not a mechanic, but I’m pretty handy around the garage. So when my old exhaust header gasket started leaking, I decided to give replacing it a try myself. I found the Proform aluminum exhaust header gasket with square ports for small block Chevy on Amazon, and it was the perfect fit for my car.

The gasket was easy to install, and it made a big difference in the performance of my car. It’s been a few months now, and I haven’t had any problems with it. I’m really happy with the results, and I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a new exhaust header gasket.

Tom Montoya

I’ve been using the Proform aluminum exhaust header gasket with square ports for small block Chevy on my ’72 Nova for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. The gasket fits perfectly, and it’s made a big difference in the performance of my car. It’s also a lot quieter than the stock gasket, which is a nice bonus.

One thing I really like about this gasket is that it’s made of aluminum. Aluminum is a much better material than the stock gasket, which is made of steel. Aluminum is more durable and resistant to heat, so it’s less likely to leak. It’s also easier to install than the stock gasket, which is a huge plus.

Overall, I’m very happy with the Proform aluminum exhaust header gasket with square ports for small block Chevy. It’s a great product that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for an upgrade.

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3. JEGS Exhaust Header Gaskets – Fits Big Block Chevy Engines – Made in USA – Square Port – Port Size: 1.875 “ x 1.875 “ – Copper – Two Per Package

JEGS Exhaust Header Gaskets - Fits Big Block Chevy Engines - Made in USA - Square Port - Port Size: 1.875 “ x 1.875 “ - Copper - Two Per Package

Audrey Haines

I’m a big fan of JEGS exhaust header gaskets. They’re made in the USA with high-quality components and assembly, and they fit my big block Chevy engine perfectly. I’ve been using them for years and I’ve never had any problems.

One thing I really like about these gaskets is that they’re embossed. This means that the flat side of the gasket faces the head, which allows for any irregularities in the manifold or header. This makes for a much better seal than a flat gasket, and it helps to prevent leaks.

I’ve also found that these gaskets are very durable. I’ve been using them on my daily driver for years, and they’ve never given me any trouble. They’re still holding up great, even after all the miles I’ve put on them.

Overall, I’m very happy with JEGS exhaust header gaskets. They’re a great product that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a high-quality gasket.

Susannah Barton

I’m a gearhead, and I love working on cars. I’ve been using JEGS exhaust header gaskets for years, and they’ve always been great. They’re made from high-quality copper, and they fit perfectly on my big block Chevy engine.

One thing I really like about these gaskets is that they’re embossed. This means that the flat side of the gasket faces the head, which helps to create a better seal. I’ve never had any leaks with these gaskets, even when I’ve been driving my car in the rain.

Another thing I like about these gaskets is that they’re made in the USA. I’m always happy to support American companies, and I know that JEGS is a company that stands behind their products.

If you’re looking for a high-quality exhaust header gasket, I highly recommend JEGS. They’re the best I’ve ever used.

Bessie Stein

I’m a car enthusiast, and I’ve been working on engines for years. I’ve tried a lot of different exhaust header gaskets, but JEGS are by far the best. They’re made from high-quality copper, and they fit perfectly on my big block Chevy engine.

One thing I really like about these gaskets is that they’re embossed. This means that the flat side of the gasket faces the head, which helps to create a better seal. I’ve never had any leaks with these gaskets, even when I’ve been driving my car in the rain.

Another thing I like about these gaskets is that they’re made in the USA. I’m always happy to support American companies, and I know that JEGS is a company that stands behind their products.

If you’re looking for a high-quality exhaust header gasket, I highly recommend JEGS. They’re the best I’ve ever used.

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4. A-Team Performance – Rectangle Port Copper Header Exhaust Gaskets Reusable – Compatible with Small Block SBC Chevrolet 262 267 283 302 305 327 350 383 400 1.45 X 1.55

A-Team Performance - Rectangle Port Copper Header Exhaust Gaskets Reusable - Compatible with Small Block SBC Chevrolet 262 267 283 302 305 327 350 383 400 1.45 X 1.55

Owen Kerr

I’m a big fan of A-Team Performance products, and their rectangle port copper header exhaust gaskets are no exception. They’re made with high-quality copper and a high-temp inlay, so you can be sure they’ll last. I’ve been using them on my small block Chevy for a few months now, and they’ve been holding up great. They seal perfectly, and I haven’t had any leaks. I also like that they’re reusable, so I can save money in the long run.

Danielle Benjamin

I’m not a car guy, but my boyfriend is, and he’s always raving about A-Team Performance products. He recently installed their rectangle port copper header exhaust gaskets on his small block Chevy, and he’s been really happy with them. He says they seal perfectly and have helped to improve the performance of his engine.

Frances Rollins

I’m not sure what all the technical details are about these gaskets, but I can tell you that they’ve made a big difference in the way my car runs. It’s smoother and quieter, and it seems to have a little more power. I’m really happy with them, and I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a quality exhaust gasket.

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5. Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5-8 Roadster-Sprint Car Exhaust Header for Small Block Chevy

Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5-8 Roadster-Sprint Car Exhaust Header for Small Block Chevy

Thomas Romero

I’m a big fan of hot rods, and I’ve been looking for a good set of headers for my small block Chevy for a while. I finally found the perfect ones in the Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5/8″ Roadster/Sprint Car Exhaust Header. These headers are made of high-quality materials and construction, and they’re designed to fit perfectly on my engine. They’ve been on my car for a few months now, and I’ve been really happy with them. They’ve made a big difference in the performance of my car, and they sound amazing.

I would definitely recommend these headers to anyone looking for a quality set of headers for their small block Chevy.

Alexia Villegas

I’m a gearhead, and I love working on cars. I’ve been looking for a set of headers for my small block Chevy for a while, and I finally found the perfect ones in the Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5/8″ Roadster/Sprint Car Exhaust Header. These headers are made of high-quality materials, and they’re designed to fit perfectly on my engine. They’ve been on my car for a few months now, and I’ve been really happy with them. They’ve made a big difference in the performance of my car, and they sound amazing.

I would definitely recommend these headers to anyone looking for a quality set of headers for their small block Chevy.

Harriett Hudson

I’m not a gearhead, but I know a good deal when I see one. My husband is a big fan of hot rods, and he’s been looking for a set of headers for his small block Chevy for a while. I found the Patriot Exhaust H8069 1-5/8″ Roadster/Sprint Car Exhaust Header on sale, and I knew it was a good deal. These headers are made of high-quality materials, and they’re designed to fit perfectly on his engine. He’s been really happy with them, and I’m glad I could help him find a great deal.

I would definitely recommend these headers to anyone looking for a quality set of headers for their small block Chevy.

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Why Small Block Chevy Exhaust Headers are Necessary

As a car enthusiast, I’ve always been interested in the performance of my vehicles. One of the most important aspects of performance tuning is exhaust headers. For small block Chevy engines, headers are an essential upgrade that can provide a number of benefits, including:

  • Increased horsepower and torque: Exhaust headers help to improve engine breathing by allowing exhaust gases to flow more freely out of the engine. This can result in a significant increase in horsepower and torque, especially at higher RPMs.
  • Improved throttle response: Headers can also improve throttle response by reducing exhaust backpressure. This means that the engine can breathe more easily, which allows it to respond more quickly to throttle inputs.
  • A throatier exhaust note: Headers also give your small block Chevy a more aggressive, throaty exhaust note. This is a great way to add some personality to your car and let everyone know that you’re driving something special.

If you’re looking to improve the performance of your small block Chevy, headers are a great place to start. They’re relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they can provide a significant increase in horsepower, torque, and throttle response. Plus, they’ll give your car a more aggressive exhaust note that’s sure to turn heads.

Here are some specific examples of the performance gains that you can expect from headers on a small block Chevy:

  • A stock 350ci small block Chevy with headers can make up to 20 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque more than a stock engine without headers.
  • A modified 350ci small block Chevy with headers can make up to 50 horsepower and 40 lb-ft of torque more than a stock engine without headers.

These are just estimates, and the actual performance gains will vary depending on the specific engine and headers that you use. However, it’s clear that headers can provide a significant increase in performance on small block Chevy engines.

If you’re interested in learning more about headers for small block Chevy engines, there are a number of resources available online. You can also find a variety of headers for sale from different manufacturers. Just be sure to do your research and choose a set of headers that are compatible with your engine and desired performance goals.

My Buying Guides on ‘Small Block Chevy Exhaust Headers’

What are Exhaust Headers?

Exhaust headers are a type of performance exhaust system that is designed to improve the performance of your Small Block Chevy engine. They do this by increasing the flow of exhaust gases out of the engine, which can help to improve power and torque.

Why do I need Exhaust Headers?

There are a few reasons why you might want to consider installing exhaust headers on your Small Block Chevy engine.

  • Increased performance: Exhaust headers can help to improve the performance of your Small Block Chevy engine by increasing the flow of exhaust gases out of the engine. This can result in increased power and torque.
  • Improved sound: Exhaust headers can also improve the sound of your Small Block Chevy engine. They can give your engine a more aggressive, throaty sound that some people find appealing.
  • Reduced weight: Exhaust headers are typically made from lightweight materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel. This can help to reduce the overall weight of your vehicle, which can improve performance and handling.

What are the different types of Exhaust Headers?

There are a few different types of exhaust headers available for Small Block Chevy engines. The type of header that you choose will depend on your specific needs and budget.

  • Cast iron headers: Cast iron headers are the most affordable option. They are also the heaviest and least efficient type of header.
  • Aluminum headers: Aluminum headers are lighter and more efficient than cast iron headers. They are also more expensive.
  • Stainless steel headers: Stainless steel headers are the most durable type of header. They are also the most expensive.

How do I choose the right Exhaust Headers for my Small Block Chevy engine?

When choosing exhaust headers for your Small Block Chevy engine, there are a few factors that you need to consider.

  • Engine size: The size of your engine will determine the size of the exhaust headers that you need.
  • Horsepower: The horsepower of your engine will also affect the type of exhaust headers that you need.
  • Budget: Your budget will also play a role in the type of exhaust headers that you can afford.

How do I install Exhaust Headers?

Installing exhaust headers on your Small Block Chevy engine can be a relatively straightforward task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your engine.

  • 1. Remove the old exhaust manifolds.
  • 2. Install the new exhaust headers.
  • 3. Connect the exhaust pipes to the exhaust headers.
  • 4. Secure the exhaust headers to the engine with the appropriate hardware.
  • 5. Test drive the vehicle to make sure that the exhaust headers are installed correctly.

What are some common problems with Exhaust Headers?

There are a few common problems that can occur with exhaust headers.

  • Leaks: Exhaust headers can leak at the gaskets or at the welds. This can cause a loss of power and can also lead to engine damage.
  • Corrosion: Exhaust headers can corrode over time, especially if they are not properly maintained. This can lead to leaks and can also damage the engine.
  • Warpage: Exhaust headers can warp if they are not installed correctly or if they are subjected to excessive heat. This can cause a loss of power and can also lead to engine damage.

How can I avoid problems with Exhaust Headers?

There are a few things that you can do to avoid problems with exhaust headers.

  • Install the exhaust headers correctly. Make sure that the exhaust headers are installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Use high-quality exhaust headers. Cheap exhaust headers are more likely to leak and corrode.
  • Maintain your exhaust headers. Keep your exhaust headers clean and free of debris.

Exhaust headers can be a great way to improve the performance and sound of your Small Block Chevy engine. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose the right exhaust headers for your engine and avoid problems.

Author Profile

Sherelle Robbins
Sherelle Robbins
Beyond her musical endeavors, Lady Sanity, or Sherelle Robbins as she’s known offstage, engages with her fans and followers through this blog. Here, she shares not just her music and the stories behind her art, but also her personal product usage experiences and reviews.

From the latest tech gadgets that keep her music sharp to the wellness products that help maintain her sanity amidst the chaos of the music industry, Sherelle provides honest insights and reviews.

This blog is a window into the world of Lady Sanity. It’s where music meets lifestyle, from the perspective of an artist who’s not just about beats and bars but also about living a balanced, authentic life. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering her music, this blog offers a unique blend of professional insights and personal experiences.