During the 1970s and early 1980s, the Ford 351m headers from the Ford 335 series powered many vehicles, even though it was often overlooked. Because of its powerful torque and flexibility, the 351M was used in both trucks and larger cars.
While the 351M wasn’t created to be a top performer right away, it can be made much more powerful with the right upgrades.
Why Should You Choose Aftermarket Headers?
A major way to improve your Ford 351M engine’s performance is to replace its stock exhaust manifolds with aftermarket headers. Cast stock manifolds are useful but limit exhaust flow because of their design. Aftermarket headers boost gas flow from the engine. This increase helps release more horsepower and torque, improving performance.
Improvements in power, torque, and exhaust flow are achieved.
High-performance headers improve the way exhaust is removed from the engine. Because the engine can breathe better with less back pressure, headers increase torque and add horsepower at all RPMs. Better exhaust flow greatly increases the engine’s power and how fast it responds.
Improved sound from the exhaust and quicker throttle response.
Improved headers can help your car in more than one way. They also produce a louder and more intense exhaust sound that many fans look for. No matter if you’re at idle, speeding up, or using the wide-open throttle, the right headers add more personality to your 351M. The quicker throttle makes your car more fun to drive.
Things to Keep in Mind When Picking 351M Headers
You Have The Option Of Short Or Long Tube Headers
When you’re picking 351m headers, one of the first things to decide is whether to go with short or long tube designs. Because they are small and simple to install, short headers are great for daily cars that need more low-end power. In contrast, long tube headers are preferred by builders who want the highest possible performance.
Materials Used Are Stainless Steel, Ceramic Coated Or Mild Steel
The type of material used greatly affects how well and how long headers will perform. Because stainless steel is both durable and resistant to corrosion, it is a good long-term purchase. Thanks to their ceramic coating, headers are able to handle more heat, which helps to lower temperatures inside the engine bay. Mild steel headers are not expensive, but you may have to maintain them to stop them from rusting.
The Primary Tube Diameter And Collector Size Are Important
When the primary tube and collector are sized for your engine, exhaust flow is at its best. The bigger the diameter, the more power you can get from your engine, but smaller diameters are useful for keeping good torque at low RPMs. It’s important to check that your new exhaust parts will work well together with the rest of your system.
Complying With Emissions And Using Vehicles Off Road
If your vehicle has to meet emissions standards, you should choose headers made for street use. Most smog-compliant headers are built to include catalytic converters and oxygen sensors. Since off-road or track-only vehicles do not need to meet emissions rules, the header can be designed in more ways.
The Ability To Be Used With Transmission And Chassis Setup
It’s important to make sure the headers you pick are suitable for the way your vehicle is built. Headers should be installed without causing problems for the suspension, steering, or drivetrain. Check fitment guides and read customer reviews. This helps avoid clearance issues during installation.
What to Do When You’ve Changed Your Engine
To use modified parts in your vehicle, it’s important to upgrade to custom headers. Men who rely on these unmodified garments may find they don’t suit or perform properly. They may cost you more, but custom headers are built for your vehicle and function at their best.
How Changing Your Exhaust Alters the Sound
- Adjusting your car’s sound is possible by finding the right mix between headers, mufflers, and exhaust tips.
- How smooth the car is across the typical commute versus its performance while driving outdoors and on raceways.
- When you drive your car daily, shorter headers can give you what you need and won’t be very loud. Anyone who wants their vehicle to handle rugged terrain might notice that long tube headers are the most effective.
The Experience Users Have and How the Product Will Endure
It is clear from real business experience that choosing the right manufacturers is key. Most people are pleased with the results from Hooker and Hedman products.
Pick a Header that Tells Why You Drive
Depending on whether you drive daily, off-road, or race your car, pick headers made for your kind of performance.
Quick Advice for Improving Your Car
Part of reaching the highest levels of your Ford 351M is using a high-flow exhaust, installing a cold air intake, and tuning the ECU. Installation of new headers anywhere makes driving your vehicle more fun.