PATRIOT H8301 Full Length Header Pontiac Firebird Instruction Manual

EXHAUST PRODUCTS
A PerTronix Performance Brand — www.poertronixbrands.com — 909 599-5955

H8301 Full Length Header Pontiac Firebird

Installation Instructions & Warranty Information
H8301 ~ Pontiac 326-455
70-79 Firebird, Trans Am & 64-75 GTO, LeMans, Grand Am
Long Tube Headers1964-74 Models

4 PERTRONIX PERFORMANCE BRANDS EMISSIONS CODES This Product Is considered a Replacement Part per CARE and EPA regulations for emissions compliance and is legal for sale and use on specified vehicles in all 50 states as stated In Manufacturer’s Application Guide and Installation Instructions.
REV 1’2022
1975-79 Models
3 PERTRONIX PERFORMANCE BRANDS EMISSIONS CODES This Product is LEGAL for Closed Course Competition use or Pre-Emissions Controlled Vehicles ONLY. It is Not Legal for use on any Emissions Controlled Vehicle for Street or Off Highway use.
REV 3’2022
REV. 8 5-16-22 DSL

PLEASE READ BEFORE PROCEEDING
PerTroniethanks you for choosing a Patriot Exhaust Product. To realize the potential of Patriot’s engineering and excellent fit, Please Read and Understand these instructions completely prior to starting the installation.
Check that you received all the parts listed on the parts list, if you have any concerns, please contact PerTronix before continuing. Headers will have the part number stamped in the flange.
Work Smart — Work Safe! Most Header and Exhaust Installation are best performed on a lift. If a lift is not available, raise the vehicle and support on quality Jack Stands on level ground. Do not rely on a jack!
Many factors affect he installation of exhaust headers, including worn or aftermarket motor mounts, previous accident damage, aftermarket cylinder heads that may have relocated port or spark plug locations, suspension and steering changes, sagging of original unibody structures due to age.
Coating Notes: Coatings can be marred during installation if you are not careful. If you are breaking in a new motor, the extreme heat can alter the appearance of the coating and this is not a warranty issue. We recommend breaking in new motors with stock manifolds or an old set of headers.
We use sealing beads on all our headers. The raised bead creates a better seal virtually eliminating leaks if installed properly. It is important to install all header bolts lightly snug and then tighten to factory torque specs starting in the center and working outward.
Before starting, allow the vehicle to cool, disconnect the battery, and spray a penetrating oil on all hardware and fittings that will need to be removed. Once you remove your manifold, clean the sealing surface on the head of any old gasket debris or carbon build up.

DISASSEMBLY

1. Remove and mark all spark plug wires and then remove all spark plugs.

2. Disconnect the head pipes from the exhaust manifolds and remove the manifolds.

3. Remove the starter, clutch linkage (if manual transmission).
   a. Note: 1975 Le Mans: Remove and discard the stock solenoid heat shield.
   b. Note: Late models require removal of shift linkage, steering lock-out device and chassis support rods.

4. Remove oil filter assembly from block.
   a. Late Models: remove and discard chassis support rod.

5. Remove any gasket material or any carbon deposits that remain on the head surface.

INSTALLATION

1. Apply a small amount of anti-seize to the header bolts supplied with the headers.

2. Remove center bolt from left motor mount and jack up engine approximately 2-3”.
   Note: Be sure to use a board between oil pan and jack.
   a. Note: 1975 Le Mans: No need to raise engine for header installation.

3. Start the left header from below and work it up through the chassis into position over the exhaust ports. Start header bolts.

4. Lower engine and replace motor mount bolt.
   a. Note: Early models may require adding spacers to raise motor mount ¼” to ½” for added header clearance of cross member.

5. With the header loose, replace the clutch linkage (if removed).

6. Tighten all header bolts evenly to a final torque of approximately 35 ft. lbs.
   a. Note: It may be necessary to relocate the brake block slightly for adequate header clearance.
   b. Note: Some models may require removal or modification of the splash pan.

7. Replace the starter.

8. Note:
   a. Late models: Modify and replace shift linkage and steering lock-out device as shown in Figures “A”, “B” and “C”. 1976 Trans Am: Discard lock-out rod, lock-out linkage must be secured in a position which will not lock steering wheel.
   b. To retain heat to the carburetor, modify stock heat stove according to Figure “D” and reinstall.
   c. Late models: Discard stock chassis support rod.
   d. Check clearance between upper “A” arm and header (push down on front of the car several times). If header comes in contact with the “A” arm bolt, cut off top of bolt. If header comes in contact with upper “A” arm, then “A” arm must be marked and trimmed as necessary to insure adequate clearance.
   e. If clutch linkage clearance is a problem, bend according to Figure “E”. If further clearance is needed on early ‘A’ bodies, purchase Chevrolet Part No. 3920615 (Chevrolet clutch cross shaft) from your local Chevrolet dealer.

9. Remove center bolt from right motor mount and jack up engine approximately 3”.
   Note: Be sure to use a board between oil pan and jack.
   Note: 1975 Le Mans: No need to raise engine for header installation.

10. Start the right header from below and work it up through the chassis into position over the exhaust ports. Start header bolts.
    Note: Cars equipped with automatic transmission may require cooler lines to be disconnected.

11. Lower engine and replace motor mount bolt.
    Note: Early models may require adding spacers to raise motor mount ¼” to ½” for added header clearance of crossmember.

12. Replace oil filter.
    Note: On 1975 Le Mans it may be necessary to slightly dent either the R-4 header tube or the oil filter for adequate clearance.

13. Start all bolts and tighten evenly.

14. On models equipped with automatic transmission, reconnect the cooler lines and check for adequate clearance. Reroute as necessary.
    For additional clearance from the oil gauge sending unit, install a 45º adapter.
    Check clearance between upper “A” arm and header (push down on front of the car several times). If header comes in contact with the “A” arm bolt, cut off top of bolt. If header comes in contact with upper “A” arm, then “A” arm must be marked and trimmed as necessary to insure adequate clearance.

15.  Tighten all the header bolts evenly to a final torque of approximately 35 ft. lbs.

16. Replace the spark plugs. When you install the spark plugs, apply a small amount of anti-seize to the threads.

17. Use the supplied reducers to connect the collectors to your stock exhaust system.

18. Connect the negative battery cable.

19. Check over the installation to make sure that all wires, lines, hoses. etc. are connected and have adequate clearance to protect them from the heat generated by the headers.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Lead, Nickel, Cadmium and Chromium which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

IMPORTANT CHECK LIST

• Be sure that all brake lines, transmission lines, and fuel lines are clear of headers and/or connector pipes.
• All spark plug wires, battery cables, or other electrical components should be clear of headers and/or connector pipes.
• If dipstick tube was removed, make sure it is installed properly and that the dipstick has been replaced.
• Double-check the tightness of all bolts including brackets and accessories.

START THE ENGINE
Start the engine and allow it to warm up to operating temperature. Check for any unusual noises or exhaust leaks. If everything is OK, stop the engine and tighten all bolts while the engine is still warm.
NOTE: Check the bolts periodically to make sure they have not loosened. Re-tighten after the first 500 miles and then again at 1000 miles
Parts List
1 Left side header
2 Reducer
2 3″ flat gaskets
6 3/8″-16 x 1″ hex head cap screws
1 Right side header
2 Header gaskets
12 3/8″-16 x 3/4″ header bolts
6 3/8″-16 hex nuts
PATRIOT EXHAUST LIMITED WARRANTY
All Patriot Headers and Exhaust products are guaranteed, to the original purchaser, to be free of defects in material and workmanship for one year from date of purchase. This warranty covers the replacement or repair of the product and does not cover the cost of removal and installation, customer applied coatings, or Any discoloration or corrosion of finished surfaces.
Damage or product failure resulting from collision, improper installation, off road use, road hazards, the use of exhaust insulating wrap, or rust occurring after installation is not covered by the warranty. This warranty extends only to the original purchaser.
Should a part be deemed defective, it should be returned to the original selling retailer and must be accompanied by the sales receipt. If there is no retailer in your area, contact PerTronix direct for a return authorization and return the part prepaid to the factory for inspection. PerTronix reserves the right to replace or repair the alleged defective part and return the part freight collect.

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