Automotive exhaust headers designed for tight engine bays and classic SBC swaps. Hot-rod builders and restorers gain cleaner routing and a polished finish that suits period-correct engine bays. Are the Certified Automotive Experts Center Dump Shorty Headers the right choice for your swap and mounting arrangement?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Fit & Clearance: Tight-tuck centre-dump layout keeps tubes close to the block with 1-5/8" primaries and 2-1/2" 3-bolt collectors for improved frame clearance
- • Best for: 1923–1957 street rods, Tri-5 Chevys, early trucks and custom Gen 1 SBC swaps with front engine mounts
- • Not ideal for: Cars with stock side engine mounts (1958+), clamshell mounts (1973+), angle plug heads, or steering boxes beside the collector exit
Centre-dump shorty headers for Gen 1 Small Block Chevy 265–400 V8 engines. Polished 304 stainless steel construction with TIG-welded seams and included gaskets, hardware and collectors.
Improved Engine Bay Clearance – thanks to tight-tuck centre-dump routing
Tight-tuck tubes run close to the block and above the frame to reduce interference, using 1-5/8" primary tubes and 2-1/2" collectors to keep exits compact. 3/8" flanges and 3-bolt collectors create a compact outlet for common exhaust connections.
Easier installation in narrow engine bays common to 1923–1957 street rods and Tri-5 Chevys, letting the exhaust clear frame brackets where space is at a premium.
Long-lasting Finish and Strength – with polished 304 stainless steel and TIG welding
304 stainless resists corrosion better than mild steel and a mirror polish reduces surface pitting risk; TIG-welded seams improve joint integrity under repeated heat cycles.
Headers keep a tidy appearance over time and handle routine road use, reducing the need for early replacement or frequent refinishing.
Simplified Fitment – with included gaskets, hardware and collectors
Supplied gaskets, bolts and matching 2-1/2" 3-bolt collectors align with the header flanges and common exhaust systems to streamline assembly.
Fewer separate parts to source speeds installation and helps avoid mismatched flanges, particularly useful during SBC swaps where custom exhaust work is already required.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Certified Automotive Experts Center Dump Shorty Headers
- TIG-welded seams – Maintain structural integrity and resist cracking under repeated heating
- Includes gaskets and hardware – Includes gaskets and bolts to reduce installation prep time
- Shorty centre-dump style – Fits tight engine bays common to vintage rods and Tri-5 swaps
- Compatibility warnings included – Avoid fitment issues by confirming steering box and plug angle
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Automotive headers
- Compatible engines: Gen 1 Small Block Chevy 265, 283, 302, 305, 327, 350, 400 V8
- Fit years/applications: 1923–1957 street rods, Tri-5 Chevys, early trucks, custom SBC swaps
- Primary tube diameter: 1-5/8"
- Collector diameter: 2-1/2" (3-bolt)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will these headers fit my Small Block Chevy?
A: They fit Gen 1 Small Block Chevy engines from 265 through 400 V8 when used in vehicles with front engine mounts, such as 1923–1957 street rods, Tri-5 Chevys and early trucks.
Q: Can they be used on cars with side or clamshell mounts?
A: No, they will not fit vehicles using stock side engine mounts (1958+) or clamshell-style mounts (1973+) because the centre collector exit interferes with those setups.
Q: What additional parts or checks are needed before ordering?
A: Check for angle plug heads, steering box location beside the collector exit, and plan to use flexible dipsticks and short oil filters where clearance is limited; gaskets and hardware are included.
🏆 Our Verdict
The Certified Automotive Experts Center Dump Shorty Headers suit hot-rod builders and restorers performing Gen 1 SBC swaps who need tight-block clearance. Polished 304 stainless steel construction, TIG-welded seams and included gaskets/hardware make them a durable, convenient choice. While upfront cost may be higher than basic replacements, the durability and reduced parts sourcing deliver better long-term value for careful builds.
