5 Best Headers for K5 Blazer for Street Use
For shoppers comparing the best headers for k5 blazer, LS Swap Shorty Headers is the top pick for most buyers because its compact layout can make installation easier in a crowded engine bay. This design suits K5 Blazer projects using an LS engine, where steering, frame, and exhaust clearance often decide which parts will fit. It also gives builders a practical starting point without committing to long-tube routing.
This guide is for K5 Blazer owners planning an LS swap, replacing rusty factory manifolds, or fitting a custom exhaust system. Focus first on tube size and flange material, then check engine position, spark-plug access, steering clearance, and outlet location. Those details affect fit more than polished product photos. The 5 picks below are ranked with clear reasons and honest drawbacks for each, so you can narrow the field before ordering.
Quick Comparison
| # | Product | Best For | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | LS Swap Shorty Headers | LS Swaps In Tight Engine Bays | ~$188 | View → |
| 2 | K5 Blazer Front Fender Emblem | K5 Blazer Restoration Projects | ~$90 | View → |
| 3 | Headers for Small Block Chevy/GMC Trucks 1966-1987 | 1966-1987 Chevy Truck Restorers | ~$169 | View → |
| 4 | LS Swap Long Tube Headers | LS-Powered Performance Builds | ~$320 | View → |
| 5 | DPCCHLM BWK 1110 Weather Stripping Set | BWK 1110 Door Seal Repairs | ~$158 | View → |
5 Top Headers for the K5 Blazer
This ranked list counts down to our top pick, comparing fit, materials, compatibility, and value.
5. DPCCHLM BWK 1110 Weather Stripping Set
Best for: Restoring classic Chevy and GMC tops
This DPCCHLM weather-stripping kit fits select Chevy Blazer, K5 Blazer, and GMC Jimmy models. Coverage spans Blazer years 1987-1991, K5 Blazer years 1976-1986, and Jimmy years 1976-1991. The kit is listed for rear, left, and right locations, with four pieces included. It replaces reference part number 1110 76 BWK.
The package contains inner and outer header seals, bed-side seals, and seals that meet the vehicle body. The pieces are made from robust materials and designed to match the original appearance and function. Hardware is included for installation, and a one-year warranty adds some purchase protection. At around $158, this is a sizable investment for a seal kit, so confirm the exact vehicle year and body configuration before ordering. The listing does not provide seal dimensions or identify the specific material, which may matter for a custom restoration.
Pros
- Four-piece kit covers several key header, bed-side, and body sealing points.
- Fits a broad range of classic Blazer and Jimmy model years.
- Includes installation hardware and a one-year warranty.
Cons
- Compatibility details overlap several model ranges, so buyers must verify the exact vehicle configuration.
- Around $158, the kit costs more than a basic replacement seal set.
4. LS Swap Long Tube Headers
Best for: LS-swapped square-body truck owners
These long-tube headers fit LS swaps in 1973–1987 Chevy and GMC C/K10–C30 pickups, including 2WD and 4WD models. They also cover 1988–1991 square-body C3500, K3500, Blazer, Jimmy, and Suburban applications. The kit costs around $320 and includes MLS gaskets plus header bolts, so you do not need to source those parts separately.
The design uses 1-3/4-inch mandrel-bent primary tubes and 3-inch merge collectors to support exhaust flow across the engine’s powerband. Thick-wall steel, 3/8-inch CNC-machined flanges, and TIG-welded joints give the headers a sturdy foundation. A black aluminized thermal barrier coating helps resist corrosion and limits heat near nearby components. Fitment remains the key detail. These headers are not for 1988–1998 OBS/GMT400 trucks or 2014-and-newer Gen-V LT engines.
Pros
- Includes MLS gaskets and header bolts for a more complete installation kit.
- 1-3/4-inch primaries and 3-inch collectors support LS exhaust flow.
- Black aluminized coating adds corrosion resistance and helps manage under-hood heat.
Cons
- Fitment excludes OBS/GMT400 trucks and Gen-V LT engine swaps.
- Long-tube headers can require careful clearance checks around steering, wiring, and exhaust routing.
3. Headers for Small Block Chevy/GMC Trucks 1966-1987
Best for: Small-block Chevy truck restorers
This stainless steel header replacement targets older Chevrolet and GMC trucks with small-block V8 engines. The listed fitment covers C10, C20, C30, K10, K20, and K30 models from the late 1960s through 1986, plus Blazers through 1991. Supported engine sizes include the 305, 327, and 350, listed as 5.0L, 5.3L, and 5.7L applications. The OE references include C10, C20, C30, K10, K20, and K30.
The broad vehicle coverage is the main draw. It may help owners replace worn or rusted factory exhaust manifolds without searching for a rare original part. Stainless construction should offer better corrosion resistance than plain steel, though the listing does not provide a grade or thickness. At around $169, this pair could fit a budget restoration, but buyers should confirm the exact truck year, engine, and exhaust layout before ordering.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction offers better rust resistance than untreated steel.
- Covers many C/K truck applications from 1967 through 1986.
- Lists compatibility with 305, 327, and 350 small-block engines.
Cons
- The listing does not state tube diameter, flange thickness, or included gaskets and bolts.
- Broad fitment does not guarantee clearance for every drivetrain, suspension, or exhaust setup.
2. K5 Blazer Front Fender Emblem
Best for: Owners restoring flat K5 Blazer fenders
This set includes two silver-and-black 3D replacement emblems for 1981-1987 Blazer truck models. It is marketed as a match for part number 14051844, making it a possible choice for a K5 restoration or a worn front-fender badge. Each emblem uses a plastic body and attaches with a strong 3M double-sided sticker, so the package does not appear to include screws, clips, or other mounting hardware.
The raised logo gives the fender a more dimensional look than a flat decal. The listing also describes the badges as rustproof, waterproof, and fade-resistant, but those claims are not backed by a stated test period or warranty. Placement matters here. The seller says to apply them only to a flat surface, not an arched section, so buyers should compare the fender shape and old emblem before ordering. At around $90, this pair costs more than a basic decal, which makes correct fitment and clean surface preparation especially important.
Pros
- Includes two matching replacement badges for a pair of front fenders.
- 3D plastic construction creates a raised logo appearance.
- 3M double-sided adhesive avoids drilling into the fender.
Cons
- Designed for flat surfaces, so it may not fit curved fender sections.
- The listing gives no emblem dimensions, test period, or warranty details.
1. LS Swap Shorty Headers
Best for: DIY LS swap truck builds
These shorty headers are made for LS engine swaps, not vehicles that came from the factory with an LS motor. Their universal design targets popular projects such as 1967–72 and 1973–87 C10 trucks, K5 Blazers, Suburbans, OBS C1500s, and S10 pickups. Actual clearance depends on the engine position, steering parts, chassis, and other swap components.
The stainless steel construction has a polished finish that helps resist corrosion. Compatibility covers common 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L LS1, 6.0L, and 6.2L Gen III and Gen IV engines from 1998–2020. That includes LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7 applications. The package includes header gaskets, collector gaskets, and mounting hardware, which reduces the number of separate parts needed. At around $188, they offer a practical starting point for a budget-minded swap. They do not fit 2014-and-newer LT engines.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction helps limit rust in engine bays.
- Supports several LS engine sizes from 4.8L through 6.2L.
- Includes header gaskets, collector gaskets, and mounting hardware.
Cons
- Universal fitment may still require modifications for clearance.
- Not designed for factory-LS vehicles or newer LT engines.
Buying Guide
The most important factor is exact vehicle fitment. A header made for the wrong engine, model year, or drivetrain can create clearance problems and may not bolt to your K5 Blazer.
- Engine and year match: Confirm the header fits your engine, such as a small-block 305 or 350 V8, and the correct K5 Blazer generation. Check listings for 2WD or 4WD compatibility before ordering.
- Tube diameter: Choose 1⅝-inch primary tubes for mostly stock 305 or 350 engines. Engines with performance camshafts, larger intake systems, or over 350 horsepower may benefit from 1¾-inch tubes.
- Material and coating: Aluminized steel costs about $150 to $300 per set and suits mild use. Ceramic-coated steel usually costs $250 to $500 and handles higher under-hood temperatures better.
- Clearance and outlet position: Look for headers designed around the steering shaft, frame rails, starter, and front driveshaft. A 4WD truck needs especially careful clearance checks.
- Included hardware: Verify that the package includes gaskets, bolts, and collector reducers. Budget another $50 to $150 for quality gaskets, spark-plug wires, or exhaust modifications if those parts are missing.
If you cannot have everything, prioritize confirmed engine, year, and drivetrain fitment over coating or appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose headers for a Chevrolet K5 Blazer?
Choose headers by matching the Blazer’s model year, engine, exhaust-port layout, and intended use. K5 Blazers span 1969–1991, with small-block V8s, big-block V8s, and diesel options. Confirm the exact engine code and 2WD or 4WD layout before buying, since steering and chassis clearance can differ.
What size headers are right for a Chevrolet K5 Blazer?
The correct header size depends on the engine, power goal, and exhaust system, so no single tube diameter fits every K5 Blazer. For example, a mild small-block street build may use 1-5/8-inch primary tubes, while a larger engine or high-output build may need more. Follow the manufacturer’s application chart.
Can long-tube headers fit a 4×4 K5 Blazer?
Long-tube headers can fit a 4×4 K5 Blazer when they are designed for its engine, frame, and drivetrain, but clearance checks remain necessary. Four-wheel-drive models may require attention around the front axle, steering shaft, starter, and transmission. Check whether the kit is for a 2WD or 4WD truck before ordering.
Are ceramic-coated headers worth buying for an older K5 Blazer?
Ceramic-coated headers are usually worth buying when you want lower under-hood heat and better rust resistance than painted steel headers. They typically cost more, so compare the coating warranty and coverage. A finish applied inside and outside offers more protection than an exterior-only coating, especially on a truck used in wet climates.
Conclusion
LS Swap Shorty Headers remain the top pick for K5 Blazer owners who want a compact header design for an LS engine swap. If your priority is maximum exhaust flow or a different engine setup, choose a header option built around that engine and your planned exhaust path instead. Before buying, double-check the tube size, engine and chassis compatibility, included quantity, flange design, collector location, and current price. Fitment can vary by model year, engine mounts, steering components, and transmission choice. A shorty design may also need different exhaust connections than long-tube headers. Review the seller’s measurements and return policy before placing the order, especially when your Blazer has custom suspension or swap parts.
