Got the crossmember out, thanks for the replies to my first post. Since I had to remove the headers to pull the transmission I thought I would have them ceramic coated or buy new. Anyone know of a source to coat headers? If I decide to buy new headers, what is the best brand as far as fit and finish? The originals are Hooker Competition with no collector flange, everything was welded all the way to the tailpipes. Is there a full length header available that will not require a dent to clear the steering box? I still haven't removed the driver side header, pulled the steering box bolts and jacked up the same side of the motor but still not enough clearance. Thanks for any help!!

 

One good place I know of for ceramic coating is Jet Hot. Kind of costly though, am having brand new pair for 5.7 Hemi done at a cost of $185. As far as clearance issues, I have not found any headers that didn't need some hammer modification. I have heard that some shorty style headers fit though, have not seen any installed.

 

hookers are around the best for your buck. Stay away from shorties. If you want the best then http://www.stahlheaders.com/they last a long time and give the most HP, but cost as much as coated. I saw them on Chop Cut Rebuild a show on speed.