Got an '85 z28 305 TPI. My friend has edelbrock headers for 86+ In jegs and summit I can't find headers for an '85. Would his work?

How hard is it to install them. I've heard it's a bitch and muffler shops want about $200 in labor.

Also, what headers work with the stock plug boots? I just spend $$ on Accel 8.8 custom set with the stiaght and 90* boots. I don't wanna have to go buy new ones again.

 

IIRC, '85 was a "bastard" year, unique cat connection, etc. Bad news if you recently bought that Catco cat.

The '86-up TPI single cat headers have a 3" slip-fit pipe at the cat. That's why they're popular as an upgrade for most any year (and what I used). With headers that have that y-pipe, a new cat, and a slight mod to make your cat-back fit the new cat, you'll be set.

I did my install when I had the engine out to do the other mods. I know, cheating. But, that's still more total work than installing the headers with the engine in the car. The key word is "patience".

 

I have an 83....i bought the 86 tes....boughta slip fit catco and a pacesetter cat back...ill just have to brige the gap between the cat and the catback with some pipe.....headers went in easy...hardest part was manifold boldts and y-pipe fitting.....i didnt have it on jack stands.. my plug wires are fine.. i just needed like one or two right angle boots for cyl....7 and 8

 

I just replaced the whole exhaust from headers, y-pipe, cat, cataback.