Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

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T-Rex
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Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by T-Rex »

Straight or Angled plugs, which offers more or better header options?

I find myself in a bit of uncertainty about this. I had a pair of heads ordered that only came in straight plug so I had no choice. Thing is, a week after the expected ship date they hadn't shipped so I called. Back ordered until March 2022. I've selected another head but now have a choice of Straight or Angled plug style. Since I'm not all that familiar with the SBC or what headers fit I'm unsure which would be the best option.

I've looked at a few headers to see if there is a trend toward S or A fitment but I'm still unsure.

So, is there a 'better' way to go? What do you have, Straight or Angled, and what headers do you have?

Thanks.
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Bill Cleveland
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by Bill Cleveland »

The angled plug heads provide a little more room for some types of headers, but there is no real performance advantage for either one. I am using straight plug Vortec iron heads on my 350 Chevy with Patriot "classic style" T-bucket headers. No problems.
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mike wade
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by mike wade »

Put a FORD in it.................Problem solved............ :)! :)! :)! ....me I'm just saying........
TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN, YET THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE, SO ENJOY THIS DAY WHILE IT LASTS
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by T-Rex »

mike wade wrote: Wed Mar 24, 2021 3:03 pm Put a FORD in it.................Problem solved............ :)! :)! :)! ....me I'm just saying........
Why would I want to Fix Or Replace Daily ? :shock: :lol:
I've done more research and found headers for either type, and the head manufacturer suggests straight is usually easiest but check header of choice to be sure. Problem is, a LOT of headers do not say anything about fitting straight / angle.

Thanks for the input.

I have placed the order for heads. Now I wait.

Still interested in what style / brand headers people are using. What works best. Chrome that doesn't peel or go blue, etc.
Anyone try chrome / silver powder coat? Ceramic coated? Other options. Do not want black.
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by T-Rex »

Bill Cleveland wrote: Wed Mar 24, 2021 2:53 pm The angled plug heads provide a little more room for some types of headers, but there is no real performance advantage for either one. I am using straight plug Vortec iron heads on my 350 Chevy with Patriot "classic style" T-bucket headers. No problems.
Just looked these up. (These are among the ones I found in my research)

Seller, Speedway, states..."Fits most angle plug heads". To me that means does NOT fit straight plug. But looking at them, how can they not fit?
Looks like there is plenty of clearance for straight plug heads.

Thanks for confirming these will work.
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by Bill Cleveland »

I prefer chrome headers over stainless or coated - just my preference. Speedway posts the following warning about chrome in their catalog: Due to a revised chroming process brought on by recent EPA regulations and high labor costs, today's chrome is not the quality of days gone by. Be Aware: Exhaust components which are chrome plated are now much more susceptible to blueing, blistering, peeling & corrosion. No warranty or returns on chrome exhaust items once them have been installed.
So . . . when I received my new chrome headers from Speedway, before I installed them I went to AutoZone and bought some hi-temp ceramic paint, and sprayed the inside of the header tubes near the flange, about 3 coats. Then I "cured" it following the instructions on the paint can. So far, after cruising around town in my bucket, no bluing or peeling.
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Re: Spark plugs. Straight or angled?

Post by T-Rex »

Bill Cleveland wrote: Wed Mar 24, 2021 5:44 pm I prefer chrome headers over stainless or coated - just my preference. Speedway posts the following warning about chrome in their catalog: Due to a revised chroming process brought on by recent EPA regulations and high labor costs, today's chrome is not the quality of days gone by. Be Aware: Exhaust components which are chrome plated are now much more susceptible to blueing, blistering, peeling & corrosion. No warranty or returns on chrome exhaust items once them have been installed.
So . . . when I received my new chrome headers from Speedway, before I installed them I went to AutoZone and bought some hi-temp ceramic paint, and sprayed the inside of the header tubes near the flange, about 3 coats. Then I "cured" it following the instructions on the paint can. So far, after cruising around town in my bucket, no bluing or peeling.
Yep. That's why I asked about the chrome peeling, blueing, etc

So basically you ceramic coated them on the inside. Clever.

I do know there is a 'chrome' powder coat but I have no idea how good it is. Heat resistance, cracking, shine,... no idea.

Something else to look forward to in the build. Header selection. :?
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