eshaw

Hi guys, got a question. I have a 5.7 vortec engine that I'm putting into a project vehicle, a 98 ZR2 4x4 S10 The space for the exhaust manifold (driver side) is limited due to the proximity of the steering shaft. I have (82) exhaust manifolds that I'm using for the moment and the driver clears the steering well and the exhaust outlet is workable. The one draw back to it is it comes close to the valve cover and I'm a little concerned about the heat affecting the valve cover gasket. Others have used these with vortec heads and had no problems. Anyone have any problems they'd like to divulge? Thanks

Tuned Performance

iTrader: (92)

eshaw

I think if I have a question regarding F body parts it's my best bet concerning their use. Thanks for the reply though.

vasquezmrysvll

iTrader: (5)

eshaw

Thanks for the reply. I hadn't thought of that and that's a stellar idea. I'll do it!

Firebirdwade

So you are putting F body manifolds on a vortec 5.7, and worried about the heat affecting the rubber valve cover gaskets? IMO they are fine, the vortec and swirlport heads have the valve cover gaskets in the same place, and they are fine on the 5.0/5.'s in F bodys.

eshaw

Thanks for your reply. I'm not familiar with the swirl port heads but that is good to know. Thanks for your time.

TransamGTA350

iTrader: (2)

Valve cover gaskets will be fine. Vortec heads use the same centerbolt valve covers as all smallblock Chevy from 87' up and the 82' manifolds you have were used all the way to 92'.

As an FYI though, the driver side manifold will fit fine, but the passenger side will not be able to use the most rearward bolt. The Vortec heads don't have the 2nd threaded bolt hole on the #8 cylinder like many of the other small block heads. Some have just left the bolt out completely and had no issues with exhaust leaks. There is also an adaptor available. https://www.topstreetperformance.com...inc-steel.html

eshaw

Thanks for the reply. I've decided to run LT1 style exhaust manifolds for my application. The reason for the change is the "D" port style exhaust matches the Vortec heads a lot better than the standard style exhaust manifolds used on the Camaro. The Camaro manifolds would work great on standard heads but the exhaust ports on the vortecs have the raised floor much like the LT1 style and I feel will flow much better. I also get a bigger exhaust diameter by going this route. I'll had to modify them some to use with the vortec bolt pattern which I've since done but like you mentioned, the bolt closest the firewall on the passenger side won't be used. If it presents a problem I'll make an adapter plate. Thanks for your time!