Certified Automotive Experts Polished Stainless Steel Block Hugger Headers for Gen 1 Small Block Chevy SBC 265–400 V8

Designed for tight-clearance installations and classic small-block Chevy builds, the Certified Automotive Experts Block Hugger Headers are engineered for Gen 1 Chevrolet Small Block V8 engines ranging from 265 to 400 cubic inches in vehicles manufactured through 1959.

Featuring a compact, center-dump shorty design, these headers hug the engine block and route above the frame rails. They are intended for compatible street rods, Tri-Five Chevrolets, and early Chevy/GMC trucks equipped with front engine mounts.

Constructed from polished 304 stainless steel with TIG-welded seams, these headers provide corrosion resistance and a polished finish. The CAE-015 package includes 3-bolt collectors, mounting hardware, multi-layer copper/fiber cylinder head flange gaskets, and solid copper collector gaskets for installation.

Key Features

• Gen 1 SBC Compatibility: Designed for Chevrolet 265, 283, 302, 305, 327, 350, and 400 V8 engines in compatible pre-1960 vehicles.
• Compact Block Hugger Design: Center-dump shorty configuration for tight-clearance installations.
• Polished 304 Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant construction with a polished finish.
• TIG-Welded Seams: Welded construction for the header assembly.
• Heavy-Duty Flanges: 3/8-inch-thick flanges.
• 3-Bolt Collectors: 2-1/2-inch inlet and 2-inch outlet.
• Installation Components Included: Head flange gaskets, copper collector gaskets, hardware, and 3-bolt collectors.

Technical Specifications

Compatible Applications

• 1923–1949 Street Rods: With compatible SBC engine swaps.
• 1955–1957 Chevrolet Full-Size Cars: Including Bel Air, 210, and Nomad models with front engine mounts.
• 1955–1959 Chevy/GMC Trucks: Task Force series with compatible mounting configurations.
• 1959 and Older Kit Cars or Custom Builds: With front or custom SBC engine mounts.

Not Compatible With

• GM side-mount engine configurations from 1958–1972.
• Vehicles using GM clamshell-style motor mounts from 1973 onward.
• Vehicles manufactured after 1959.
• Angle-plug cylinder heads.
• Frames with crossmembers positioned beneath the center ports.
• Vehicles with steering boxes adjacent to the collector, including certain Nova and G-body applications.

Package Includes

• Block hugger headers
• Multi-layer copper/fiber cylinder head flange gaskets
• Solid copper collector gaskets
• Mounting hardware
• 3-bolt collectors

Frequently Asked Questions

Important Fitment Note: These headers are designed for the specified pre-1960 SBC configurations. Confirm engine mounts, cylinder head type, steering-box position, and crossmember clearance before purchasing. They are not intended to modify or remove emissions equipment.