79-86 Mustang 255-302

The 79-86 Mustang 255-302 street headers from Hedman are purpose-built exhaust manifolds engineered for small block Ford engines in classic Mustangs and Mercury vehicles spanning 1978–1993 model years. These bolt-on performance headers replace restrictive OEM manifolds, unlocking horsepower and torque while improving exhaust scavenging and engine breathing. Street-duty headers strike the balance between aggressive performance gains and durability for road-driven machines, making them ideal for enthusiasts restoring or modifying their Fox-body and earlier Mustang platforms without sacrificing daily-driver reliability.

Constructed from mandrel-bent steel tubing with a black powder coat finish, the 79-86 Mustang 255-302 headers feature 1.5-inch primary tubes that merge into a 3-inch collector, maximizing scavenging efficiency across the RPM range. The stepped primary design reduces turbulence and promotes smooth exhaust flow, translating to measurable power increases over factory cast-iron manifolds. Gaskets and hardware arrive included, simplifying installation and ensuring proper sealing at the cylinder head. The pair weighs 26.57 pounds, typical for quality steel headers, and measures 31 inches in overall length—specifications that reflect robust construction rather than lightweight compromises.

Small block Ford owners—whether building 255, 289, or 302 variants—benefit most from these headers when paired with a modern exhaust system and tuning adjustments. Installation typically requires engine bay clearance verification, as headers can interfere with alternators or steering components on tightly packed early Mustang bays; mock-up before final purchase is recommended. The black finish resists heat discoloration better than raw steel but may require periodic touch-ups in high-temperature zones. Compatible with both Ford and Mercury platforms from the late 1970s through early 1990s, these headers deliver reliable, repeatable performance gains for street and weekend track use.