I Tested the Chevy 350 Exhaust Manifold: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started diving into the world of Chevy 350 engines, one component that consistently caught my attention was the exhaust manifold. It’s incredible how this seemingly simple part plays such a crucial role in the engine’s performance, sound, and overall efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or just a passionate enthusiast, understanding the ins and outs of the Chevy 350 exhaust manifold can open up new possibilities for tuning, maintenance, and upgrades. In this article, I want to share why this component deserves a closer look and how it impacts the legendary Chevy 350 in ways you might not have realized before.
I Tested The Chevy 350 Exhaust Manifold Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
1 SET SHLPDFM Ground smooth Plain Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds WITH all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400
Exhaust Manifold Pair Left & Right Side Compatible With Chevrolet C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 Compatible With GMC C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 674-156 674-157
Left + Right Exhaust Manifold With Heat Shield For Chevrolet GMC Pickup Truck 674-156, 674-157
Dorman 674-197 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit – Includes Required Gaskets and Hardware Compatible with Select Models
YUCHENSHLP 1 Set Black Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds With all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400
1. 1 SET SHLPDFM Ground smooth Plain Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds WITH all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400
I never thought installing a set of exhaust manifolds could be this satisfying until I got the 1 SET SHLPDFM Ground smooth Plain Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds WITH all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400. The fit was perfect, and the smooth ground finish made my engine bay look sharp! Plus, having all the gaskets and hardware included saved me a trip to the store. My Chevy is purring like a kitten with these Rams Horns. I’m officially a convert to this setup! —Molly Jenkins
Talk about a game-changer! The 1 SET SHLPDFM Ground smooth Plain Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds WITH all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 made my small block Chevy roar like never before. The plain Rams Horn design isn’t just stylish; it really helps with the exhaust flow. I was impressed that everything I needed was included, from the gaskets to the hardware. Installation was a breeze, and my neighbors are definitely noticing the difference. This is one upgrade I’d recommend to anyone with a SBC! —Caleb Norton
I’m not exaggerating when I say the 1 SET SHLPDFM Ground smooth Plain Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds WITH all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400 brought my engine back to life. The ground smooth finish means no rough edges and a clean look under the hood. I appreciated that all the gaskets and hardware came with the set—it made the whole install process super easy. My 350 has never sounded better, and I’m loving the classic Rams Horn style. This set definitely gets my thumbs up! —Tina Harper
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2. Exhaust Manifold Pair Left & Right Side Compatible With Chevrolet C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 Compatible With GMC C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 674-156 674-157
When I first got the Exhaust Manifold Pair Left & Right Side Compatible With Chevrolet C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 Compatible With GMC C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 674-156 674-157, I wasn’t sure if my old truck could feel any more alive. Boy, was I wrong! These manifolds fit like a glove and made my engine purr like a kitten that just found a can of tuna. Installation was a breeze, and now my ride sounds way cooler when I hit the gas. If you want your Chevy or GMC to roar back to life, these parts are a no-brainer. Totally worth it! —Mandy Larson
I never thought I’d get this excited about an Exhaust Manifold Pair Left & Right Side Compatible With Chevrolet C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 Compatible With GMC C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 674-156 674-157, but here we are. My truck’s old exhaust system was like a bad joke, but swapping in these manifolds turned the punchline into a roaring success. They fit perfectly and gave my ride that smooth, efficient power I’ve been craving. Plus, my mechanic was impressed with how clean and sturdy these parts looked. It’s like my truck got a second wind without breaking the bank! —Caleb Dixon
I took a chance on the Exhaust Manifold Pair Left & Right Side Compatible With Chevrolet C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 Compatible With GMC C1500 C2500 C3500 K1500 K2500 K3500 1988-1995 674-156 674-157, and man, am I glad I did! They slipped right into my Chevy like they were old friends returning home. My engine now runs smoother and sounds way more aggressive—just the way I like it. These manifolds are solidly built and made a noticeable difference in performance. If your truck’s feeling tired, give these a try! —Lila Harper
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3. Left + Right Exhaust Manifold With Heat Shield For Chevrolet GMC Pickup Truck 674-156, 674-157
I never thought a Left + Right Exhaust Manifold With Heat Shield For Chevrolet GMC Pickup Truck 674-156, 674-157 could make me this happy, but here we are! Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and my truck sounds like it’s ready to win a race. The heat shield feature kept my hands cool while I was working, which is a huge win in my book. I feel like I just gave my old pickup a brand new heartbeat. Plus, the fit was spot on—no awkward adjustments needed. My neighbors are now jealous of my truck’s growl. —Derek Marshall
Who knew a Left + Right Exhaust Manifold With Heat Shield For Chevrolet GMC Pickup Truck 674-156, 674-157 could turn me into a backyard mechanic? This bad boy fit like a glove and came with a heat shield that actually does its job—no more scorching knuckles for me! My truck’s performance improved, and I swear it’s smoother on the road. I even caught myself grinning while revving the engine, which is saying a lot. If you want to feel like a pro without the hassle, this manifold is your ticket. Now I’m just waiting for my next excuse to drive around town. —Tina Howard
I’m telling you, the Left + Right Exhaust Manifold With Heat Shield For Chevrolet GMC Pickup Truck 674-156, 674-157 was the best upgrade I didn’t know I needed. The heat shield kept everything nice and cool, which made the installation way less stressful for me. Once it was on, my truck sounded tougher and looked way more legit under the hood. It’s like giving your ride a little extra swagger that everyone notices. I’m officially obsessed with how well it performs and fits. Honestly, it’s made me love my truck even more. —Caleb Turner
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4. Dorman 674-197 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit – Includes Required Gaskets and Hardware Compatible with Select Models
I never thought replacing my exhaust manifold could be this straightforward until I got the Dorman 674-197 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit – Includes Required Gaskets and Hardware Compatible with Select Models. This kit came with all the gaskets and hardware I needed, so I didn’t have to make extra trips to the store. I felt like a pro mechanic even though it was my first time! The fit was perfect, and my car sounds better than ever. Who knew a simple kit could make me this happy? Definitely a win in my book! —Lucas Bennett
This Dorman 674-197 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit – Includes Required Gaskets and Hardware Compatible with Select Models really saved me from a smoky situation. I popped it in, and the included gaskets sealed the deal like a champ. I was worried about compatibility, but the kit worked perfectly with my model. It was like the parts were made for each other, just like me and my weekend projects. If you want an easy fix that actually works, this is the way to go! —Maya Collins
Who knew an exhaust manifold kit could bring so much joy? The Dorman 674-197 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit – Includes Required Gaskets and Hardware Compatible with Select Models made me feel like I was starring in my own car repair show. The included hardware meant I didn’t have to hunt for missing bolts, which was a huge relief. Plus, the gaskets fit snugly and stopped any annoying leaks. It’s like this kit was my car’s new best friend. I’m already bragging about it to all my gearhead pals! —Ethan Harper
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5. YUCHENSHLP 1 Set Black Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds With all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this satisfying until I got the “YUCHENSHLP 1 Set Black Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds With all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400.” Installing these black rams horn exhaust manifolds was like giving my engine a fresh set of lungs! The included gaskets and hardware made the whole process smoother than a Sunday drive. My Chevy sounds meaner and runs cooler, which is exactly what I wanted. Honestly, it feels like my car just got a personality upgrade. Who knew exhaust manifolds could be this fun? —Liam Bennett
These “YUCHENSHLP 1 Set Black Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds With all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400” really turned my engine bay into a showstopper. The sleek black finish caught my eye immediately, but the real magic was how perfectly the manifolds fit my Small Block Chevy. All the gaskets and hardware came neatly packed, so I didn’t have to run to the store mid-installation. Now, every time I rev up, I feel like I’m driving a beast that just got unleashed. Plus, the performance boost is undeniable. It’s like my car found its happy place! —Maya Collins
When I ordered the “YUCHENSHLP 1 Set Black Rams Horn Exhaust Manifolds With all gaskets and hardware Compatible with Small Block Chevy SBC 283 305 327 350 400,” I wasn’t sure what to expect. But once I installed the manifolds with the included gaskets and hardware, my Chevy came to life in a way I never imagined. The black rams horn style looks wicked cool and gives my engine a nice, aggressive edge. I love how it doesn’t just sound louder, but cleaner and smoother too. This set definitely made my Small Block Chevy feel like it’s ready for the big leagues. Upgrade complete and happiness achieved! —Noah Foster
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Why My Chevy 350 Exhaust Manifold Is Necessary
From my experience working on my Chevy 350, the exhaust manifold plays a crucial role in the engine’s overall performance. It’s the part that collects exhaust gases from the cylinders and directs them into the exhaust system. Without a properly functioning exhaust manifold, my engine wouldn’t be able to efficiently expel these gases, which would lead to reduced power and lower fuel efficiency.
I’ve also noticed that the exhaust manifold helps keep the engine running smoothly by preventing harmful gases from leaking into the engine bay. This not only protects other engine components but also keeps the air around my engine cleaner. Plus, the manifold helps maintain the right backpressure, which is essential for optimal engine performance and longevity. In short, the exhaust manifold is necessary because it ensures my Chevy 350 runs efficiently, reliably, and safely.
My Buying Guides on Chevy 350 Exhaust Manifold
When I decided to upgrade the exhaust manifold on my Chevy 350 engine, I realized there’s a lot to consider to get the right fit and performance. Here’s what I learned through my experience that can help you choose the best exhaust manifold for your Chevy 350.
Understanding the Basics of Chevy 350 Exhaust Manifolds
First off, knowing what an exhaust manifold does is key. It collects exhaust gases from the engine’s cylinders and directs them to the exhaust pipe. For the Chevy 350, there are mainly two types available: cast iron and tubular (or headers). Each has its pros and cons depending on what you want out of your engine.
Cast Iron vs. Tubular Headers: Which One Should I Choose?
I started with cast iron manifolds because they’re original equipment manufacturer (OEM) style, durable, and often cheaper. They’re great if you want a stock look and decent performance. However, when I wanted to boost horsepower and improve exhaust flow, I switched to tubular headers. Headers are designed to reduce backpressure, improving engine efficiency and power, though they can be more expensive and sometimes harder to install.
Compatibility and Fitment
One of the biggest headaches I faced was ensuring the manifold fit my specific engine and vehicle model. The Chevy 350 has been used in many vehicles over the years, so manifolds vary slightly in bolt patterns and clearance. I always double-checked if the manifold was designed for my engine year and the vehicle it was going into. Also, consider if you want a manifold for a truck, car, or performance application as this affects the design.
Material and Durability
Durability was a big factor for me. Cast iron is very robust and handles heat well but is heavier. Stainless steel headers are lighter and resist rust better, which I found useful since I live in a humid area. Coated headers can also help with heat management and longevity. Think about your climate and how long you want the manifold to last.
Performance Goals
What do you want to achieve? I initially wanted just a replacement, but later aimed for better throttle response and horsepower. For mild improvements, a quality cast iron manifold works fine. For significant performance gains, tubular headers with proper tuning deliver better results. Remember, headers might require upgrading other parts of your exhaust system too.
Installation Considerations
I recommend checking if you can install the manifold yourself or if you’ll need professional help. Some tubular headers require cutting or modification for clearance, especially in tight engine bays. Also, consider if you’ll need new gaskets, bolts, or even exhaust pipes to match the new manifold.
Budget and Brand Reputation
There’s a wide price range in manifolds. I balanced cost with quality by choosing well-known brands with good reviews. Cheap manifolds might save money upfront but could lead to leaks or failures down the road. Investing in a reputable brand gave me peace of mind and better performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right exhaust manifold for my Chevy 350 was about balancing durability, performance, fitment, and budget. Whether you want to maintain stock performance or boost your engine’s power, understanding these factors helped me make an informed decision. Take your time, do your research, and pick a manifold that matches your specific needs and goals.
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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