1969 Spark Plugs

[Bill Stephens]

I just changed the spark plugs on my 1969 with a 350 engine. The previous owner installed headers, and there are heat shields that protect the spark plugs and wires from the headers. The plugs are below the headers. I took the heat shields off to change the plugs and it ended up taking me several hours. I finally took the headers all the way off on the passenger side. I managed to avoid this on the driver's side by spending well over an hour trying to rethread the bolt holding the heat shield on.

Does anyone know if these heat shields are there even with the stock exhaust manifold? Also, is there an easier way to do this? By the end of the day I was swearing that I'd never change the plugs again. Thanks for your help.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1969 Spark Plugs

Bill------

If you're talking about heat shields that cover each set of plugs (4 shields per car) and are each attached to the block with one 1/4"-20 cap screw, then the answer is, YES, they were used with the original exhaust manifolds. If they are some other sort of shield, then they may be aftermarket.

The problem that you are describing is just ONE of the MANY problems that one creates for oneself when one decides to install headers. Under no circumstances would I EVER, EVER install headres on a street car. NEVER. EVER. PERIOD.

[Jack H.]

Add on...

to Joe's comments which I agree with. Headers were popular as a means to improve exhaust flow, but there are decided drawbacks:

(1) Some factory accessories (A/C, Etc.) may not fit without custom bracket fabrication.

(2) Headers are notorious for burning up the gaskets used to seal them to the cylinder heads creating underhood exhaust leaks.

(3) Plug wires, if not CAREFULLY routed and somehow 'clamped' into position can touch, burn and short. I STRONGLY suggest those who install headers also pop for the big-$ to install ceramic insulated plug wires.

[Bill Stephens]

Re: Add on...

I had already decided to move back to stock exhaust manifolds, but you guys have convinced me not to wait. Thanks for your help.