Hey guys this is the best site for info. I have a question. I am getting ready to install my 396 BB in my 67' Camaro. I have a friend who said I should install the headers before I install the motor. I don't think it will work. The headers I have are 1 7/8 at the flange w/ 3 1/2 collector. Also with tall valve covers I think I might have issues with the wiper motor. Any suggestions? Also is it necessary to knock a notch in the firewall for an HEI? Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Don't try headers first they will just get in the way of the install. They can be slipped in once everything is installed by loosening one side and rocking motor to clear (I know it sounds counterproductive, but it is the best way).

HEI will clear without notching firewall, but I would still recommend a small HEI with external coil (do not use one out of a BBC truck as they have a built in rev limiter; get one out of a Camaro). In fact I would further recommend an aftermarket small HEI with an ignition controller (I favor MSD, but others also work).

Tall valve covers will clear if you have used the BBC frame mounts instead of the SBC frame mounts that are in small block equipped cars. The BBC frame mounts move the motor over, up and forward to clear everything that will hit if you don't. That also implies a BBC trans mount as motor has moved to the passenger side.


Larger Dave

Thanks Dave for the info. I just finished cleaning and painting everything in the engine compartment and I don't want to bang everything up. I did do the big block mounts. I noticed on several different cars that the wiper motor was mounted in a multitude of ways. I want it to look right, but I also want to use the tall valve covers. The distributor I went with is a Mallory HEI. Basically I got it for a great price. Any other suggestions?

My generic, tall chrome valve covers wouldn't work with BB frame and poly motor mounts!! So I got a pair of Summits el-cheapo stock height chrome ones...

Hit the wiper motor and couldn't remove it!!

pdq67

The best bet with the headers, especially the drivers side, is to hang em in the car before you drop the motor. Attach them to the hood hinge with some wire.

The best bet with the headers, especially the drivers side, is to hang em in the car before you drop the motor. Attach them to the hood hinge with some wire.
I needed to lay headers in before engine went in and they fit.Found this out after installing engine.I have tall valve covers and I am using DSE big buck wiper motor for cleareance.I can remove the cover and clear girdles to set valves without any problems.

My 67 has a 396 the tall valve covers will not clear the stock wiper motor and I had to use the small distributor the big hei would not clear the firewall. I don't know about the headers.