Buzzardz_vette

Finally got my son's 75 to the point where we could fire up the engine after sitting for 5 - 6 years. The engine was rebuilt and never run and sat it the garage of the previous owner (whole other story). We purchased it about three years ago right after the Hooker headers and side pipes were installed. Finally got it to the point where we could start it this weekend. After troubleshooting the HEI distributor, we had to replace the electronic ignition module. Turned the key again and it fired right up. Lars tuned the carb over a year and a half ago and it still fired up on the first start. Ran it for about 15 - 20 minuted to break in the cam and noticed that the header pipes to the number 1, 7, 2 and 8 cylinders (outside tubes) were bright red hot!! We decided to shut it off before we burned up something. What could be the problem? Is this normal for the first time using the headers? My son wants to start it up again tomorrow (it's raining today) and I need to know if it will be OK. Thanks.

chvet73

Check your timing.

A88FXRS

something is not right. never saw sidepipes do that.

63mako

Timing or running lean will do that. Since Lars tuned the carb it is probably timing

Buzzardz_vette

Set the timing to 8 deg BTDC (correction) at idle before we shut it off. We were afraid to rev it up because of the headers.

63mako

zero is no good.
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show....php?t=1430339

Stroker-427

Tipically a very retarded engine can make red hot the headers!

Check your timing.... because with no load even a very lean carburation can't do that.

With a very late timing the combustion can be still active when the exhaust valve start to open.... producing too much heat in the headers.

Sorry if I ask...... but the the firing sequence was Ok, right?

cv67

Buzzardz_vette

Yes, firing was good. Engine ran very smooth. We're going to try to set the timing tomorrow and see if that helps.

rtpilot

Had this happen to me back in 72. Found a wire from the starter hitting the exhaust manifold. Man , the thing was glowing cherry red

TimAT

Set the timing to at least 10* advanced (BTDC) more if the engine likes it-- you'll be able to tell, it will sound nice and free, like it really wants to run. Get the cam break-in done, then go back and set it at 36@3000.

73, Dark Blue 454

Vacuum leak(s) will cause lean out. Also, 0 degrees timing is too retarded. With a stock-ish cam, set the initial at 8-10 degrees advanced. If you've upgraded the cam you could probably use more timing. My guess is, you're running a dual pattern cam which will heat up the headers.

Lastly, a restricted exhaust can cause this,..might check for obstructions and/or mal-functioning heat-riser valve.

Good luck!

TheMongoose

Did u take out the distributor? If so check to make sure it's back in correctly. If it's off you will have glowing exhaust...someone at work did this once...

0Willcox Corvette

All the above could cause this, and you might re-adjust the valves. Make sure they are not too tight!

Glowing headers can be restriction in the exhaust, vacuum issue, timing and valves not adjusted properly. (allowing fuel in the exhaust system).

Buzzardz_vette

My bad. I meant to say the timing was set at 8 deg BTDC, NOT 0 degrees. I misunderstood the friend that was helping us. I've correct it in my earlier post.

Buzzardz_vette

We'll, we fired her up again last night and the hooker didn't turn red again, so maybe they just needed to heat up the first time they were run. We programmed the SPAL fans and shut it off to let it cool to test the fans when the rain started and we had to push it back in the garage, so we'll have to finish the cam break in tonight. Thanks for the assistance.

corvette744

I didnt think you were supposed to break in an engine with hooker sidepipes.At least i thought i read that some-were..

blunblk68

I think it states that in their instructions specificly for the coated headers as it will bake the coating and void the warranty!!

Buzzardz_vette

Unfortunately, the previous owner installed the hookers for us and didn't give us any warranty paperwork. These are the ceramic coated headers. Oh well, nothing we can do about it now. Good thing we only paid $600 for the headers and pipes and install.

sly vette

Finish the cam break in???????

If you didn't finish the cam break in...the cam may be finished!!!