chemeng

I've got a '65 Fastback that I want to improve the exhaust system. Not sure whether to use the Tri-Y's or the K code iron manifolds. Checked a couple of mags and the say the Tri-Y's won't fit on manual transmission cars without modification. Has anyone installed the old style headers on a manual tranny car and did they have a problem fitting? The car has the old style motor mounts, the engine sits a little lower than the late '65's and above.

How much of a performance difference between the Tri-Y's and the K code manifolds? I like the looks of the old iron manifolds a little better, but will go with headers if there is a big difference.

Opinions?

Thanks, MikeR

Big D

I think i would check out hooker for they're amazing headers or if uu want check out CJ Pony parts for hearders great prices for stang parts

ravenblack67

in the long run I recommend the K code headers as they are somewhat affordable ($300) and bolt on with ease. I assume you already have dual exhaust, a lightweight intake and a 4V carb. Headers give off a lot of heat unless coated.

chemeng

Yep, the guy I bought it from had dualed the exhaust and added the H pipe, but left the stock exhaust manifolds.
I added a Ford Racing intake and Holley carb. She runs great but I can tell there is a restriction somewhere, most likely culprit being the exhaust manifold.

LMan

I think there's sufficient difference to make fullengths (or at least shortys) worth the work. The K-code manifolds are better than stock, but not a lot better.

I see it as a waste to pay 2x the cost of headers to get "K-code manifolds" that wont make a significant difference.

Try shortys if there's interference with your linkage.

BLAKE

Another vote for shortys here. Much better flow than any cast iron manifold, and no fitting issues.

chemeng

Looks like shortys wins it, will add them on with the T-5 transfer next week. Also cleaning up a pair of '66 motor mount brackets, they're taller than the '65's and are supposed to be stronger. Should avoid any clearance problems with these. One of the old stud type brackets had broken and the guy had put a bolt through the stud hole to hold it in place. Had to put 4 washers under it to get the height up so the fan wouldn't rub on the shroud.

I'll post how the transfer went, bought a new World Class from Ford.

Thanks, Mike

Thunder Road

Trii ys are a good header for a streeter. Put em on a 65 coupe with a 302 and factory 4 spd. no probs.

chemeng

Just put the '66 motor mounts into my '65. The mounts are just over an inch taller than the '65's. Should have plenty of clearance for the Tri-Y's now. Now I know why the radiator I bought last year did not fit, the motor was too low in the engine bay. The old mounts needed 4 washers on each side to shim the engine up and allow the fan to clear the shroud. The new mounts don't need the shims and the fan clears perfectly, had to remount the radiator using the original mounting holes.
Has anyone else run across this?
MikeR