Yep, the steady rests are replaced by the new ones built into the headers. I had my doubts, but have had zero problems AND no leaks. That's right headers without leaks.

On the master cylinder-it came with my disc brake kit. I did run it at first with the stock exhaust manifolds and never had a heat/brake issue and I drove it all the way to Columbus and back one year. But I wouldn't guarantee this idea seeing how the stock manifolds do generate more heat. Now tho the headers dissapate heat very quickly and let the engine run a little cooler, like you suggested.

I also have Flowmaster mufflers mounted further back than the stock postion. This helps to keep your feet cool on longer trips in the summer. I highly reccomend this idea and come to think of it I should post some pics of how to do it.

The oil filter is in the stock position, I have yet to remove it successfully without spilling oil on the collectors. So more cleanup is usually in order. I don't think you could use the right angle mount with them, but it might work. I was considering a remote mounted filter actually.

       A  L  A  N   F  R  A  K  E  S   ~  Tulsa, OK    

Guess I'm showing what a sheltered life I've lead - the steady rest bracket is on the header flange? I see said the blind man. On the T-bird that helps a lot in the space department. Is the oil filter mounted direct to the block or rotated down? 

I was looking at the master cylinder shown in your in the movie shot - sizing up the brake situation - its next on my must do list after I get the electrics reliable. I really want to keep the cast iron manifolds on there and first glance was telling me that the long dual master cylinder was going to cook. The headers kind of fix that problem don't they.

 
 Steve Metzger       Tucson, Arizona

I am not using fenderwell headers. I am currently using the tbird headers made by FORD Power Train in Washington State. They are on my tired old 312 and I really like them.



I plan to share the numbers of the dyno test and any other stuff I learn along the way. It has taken me a long long time to get this far with this engine. I hope to get it to the dyno maybe by the middle of september. I might add that for me the dyno test is more about making sure everthing is solid with this build, not about how much hp it will make-I think I have an idea of that just from the similar combinations of others projects. I might do some carb swaps and will try stock exhaust manifolds vs. the headers just to see what difference they really add, break in the new cam and valve train and hope nothing pokes out the side! Here is a link to the headers on my current setup, I've posted it before on the old site.

http://frakesdesign.com/mov02213.mpg

       A  L  A  N   F  R  A  K  E  S   ~  Tulsa, OK