Oh no....that'* the most common Aeronautical Tool Experience with Colorful Language. There are more.....like dropping a fuel tank to replace a fuel pump, taking out the dash to repair a data link, pulling a head off to go get a bolt.....

Installing headers on your 97 will be a breeze, as far as headers are concerned. I have a write up here installing TOGs on a 97. Now try installing them on a W body.

gotcha I've done the fuel tank (hence the right up) kinda of have to slide it out the side.

It'* funny, the only person I've ever come across having a problem wtih SLP'* is Kevin. The only person I've come across with a TOG problem was Ed McGrath. Both had issues that made them both very against each header. Truth here is.. SLP'* and Togs were the only headers for a long time. High price tags and good overall quality. Research can be your friend.

SLP'* should have the flex piece replaced before they go on the car.
Togs have bolt together donut flanges that like to burn out the donuts.

My preference is the SLP'*. Slip fit joints save space and don't need to be resealed or gooped to seal. The tick started to drive me nuts. I fixed that with a bit of header wrap until it burns through. Then it'll get replaced with a different flex for $20.

I've worked with the SS AutoChromes ($300 new) and they are a great SLP knock off.
I've seen a lot of info on other forums about these types of headers you posted abotu and the reviews are good overall. Clamps could be better etc, but pricewise good stuff.
PaceSetters are known to have horrible connection points and there are many writeups about how to improve them. ZZP reworks them before they'll sell a set. And yet, I know guys that welded the cross over and never had a leak.

My personal review and having installed a bunch of different ones is SLP'* fit the best and are the easiest to work with. Nearly all headers are going to make contact with the front 96-99 trans mount. You'd want to do your homework to see if you need to trim or rework the mount.

Pick up the cheap headers. I'll help you install them.

Looked at other forums well really just one the LT1 truck site and a guy really likes them.

Installing those headers will be very close to the writeup I did. You will still need to deal with that front trans mount.

yeah seems like there is a pro and con to each. I'm all up for making things fit :-p grindy grindy. I've been looking at used headers and those but the money isn't there just yet thanks for all the input guys are always there for help.

The motor mount will depend on which headers you go with. The Togs only need the mount to be trimmed a little, while SLP'* need a bit more clearance.

I made one mount and have never needed to look back or redo it.