I put a carbed 383 in my 88 camaro. Running eagle rotating assembly, SRP .30 over flat tops, Edelbrock Performer RPM alum. heads, Air gap intake, Lunati bracketmaster 480 lift cam, 750cfm Holley double pumper and all msd ignition (6-AL box, pro billet distributer,blaster 2 coil, plug wires). Motor is supposed to put out 400 HP and 450 torque. I am still undecided on a set of headers. I think I want shorties with 1 5/8 tubes. I dont want to spend a fortune on a set but i would be willing to pay around $250-$300. Can someone give me some tips? Thanks.

 

One very important tip: Increase your budget.

That engine would probably be okay with 1-5/8" long tubes. However, shorties should probably be 1-3/4".

 

How much more difficult is it to use the longtubes? Im getting all custom exhaust run so i dont need it to hook up to stock stuff. How much ground clearance will i lose?

 

Ground clearance will be affected, but only will be a problem if you have the car lowered. IMO I would run the 1 3/4" Hooker 2210s. If you are running a full custom exhaust that will work out well for you.

 

you've already spent the money to stroke it, and have an eagle rotating assembly... why cheap out on the exhaust? To play big, you pay big... go w/ hooker 1 3/4, or SLP 1 3/4... you'll hear differences of opinions on which one is better. IMO SLP is the better choice, but some will say Hooker because with minor modification they will out-flow SLPs.... me, I dont want to have to fiddle around with my headers, they're already going to be a PITA to put on. Dont need to add stress with modifying them as well lol.

 

I would run the shorty hooker headers on the combo that you have .