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.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Certified Automotive Experts |
| Part Number | CAE-015 |
| Product Type | Block Hugger Exhaust Headers |
| Header Style | Center-Dump Shorty |
| Engine Compatibility | Gen 1 Chevrolet Small Block V8 |
| Engine Sizes | 265, 283, 302, 305, 327, 350, 400 cu. in. |
| Vehicle Fitment | Compatible configurations manufactured through 1959 |
| Primary Tube Diameter | 1-5/8 inches |
| Collector Inlet | 2-1/2 inches |
| Collector Outlet | 2 inches |
| Collector Design | 3-Bolt |
| Flange Thickness | 3/8 inch |
| Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Finish | Polished |
| Welding | TIG-Welded Seams |
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Which engines are these headers designed for? | Gen 1 Chevrolet Small Block V8 engines in the listed 265–400 cubic-inch range. |
| Will these headers fit any SBC vehicle? | No. Fitment depends on vehicle year, engine mounting style, cylinder head configuration, steering clearance, and frame layout. |
| What material are the headers made from? | Polished 304 stainless steel with TIG-welded seams. |
| What are the primary tube and collector sizes? | The primary tubes are 1-5/8 inches, with 2-1/2-inch collector inlets and 2-inch outlets. |
| Are gaskets and installation hardware included? | Yes. The package includes head flange gaskets, copper collector gaskets, hardware, and 3-bolt collectors. |
| Can these headers be used on vehicles manufactured after 1959? | They are not listed for vehicles manufactured after 1959. |
| Are they compatible with angle-plug cylinder heads? | No. Angle-plug cylinder heads are specifically listed as incompatible. |
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.
WARNING: RACE / COMPETITION USE ONLY
This part is built and sold only for racing vehicles used solely in closed-course competition. Once this part is installed, the vehicle may never be used, or registered or licensed for use, on a public road or highway. Off-road or off-highway use is not competition use. Installing this part on a vehicle used on public roads may violate the federal Clean Air Act, 42 U.S.C. 7522(a)(3), and state law, and may result in civil or criminal penalties, failed inspections and loss of registration. Emissions laws vary by state. Check yours before you buy.
NOT LEGAL FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA ON ANY POLLUTION CONTROLLED MOTOR VEHICLES. THE SALE, USE OR INSTALLATION OF THIS PRODUCT MAY ALSO BE ILLEGAL NATIONWIDE UNDER THE FEDERAL CLEAN AIR ACT (42 U.S.C. 7522(a)(3)).
$132.00
