Classic/Antique Car Repair: Header on 1971 vette, side muffler, plug wires

Question
My brother talked me into putting headers on my 1971 350 HP VETTE. Now when I start the car it pops through the passenger side muffler. Then after it warms up it is not as bad but pops when you are driving down the road and let off the gas. Also he said I would get better proformance and better gas miliage. Well it is sucking up the gas now. Also now I am told I have to put a shield around the streering box and the starter now. Should I have just left it stock.

Answer

I wonder if you have crossed the plug wires, as it should not be poping , but when you let off the gas it might pop-pop. that is normal with some cars but not when driving. check the wires. as far as the gas I would think it would have been better ? you must see a big differnce in its power right . and as far as shields , if you need them , its better than a fire. As far as stock, I have had headers on all my hot rods , never with out . stock ,no you did good. Roger PS do you have header mufflers on it, or the stock mufflers, as the stock ones might not last that long , you will see if you have them, but I think that you did a good thing.