Hedman Hedders

Hedman Hedders: A Hot Rod Icon Since 1954

Few names carry as much weight in the performance exhaust world as Hedman Hedders. Founded in 1954, Hedman is one of the original manufacturers in the hot rod industry, building a reputation that has endured for over seven decades. Alongside sister brand Trans-Dapt Performance Products, Hedman helped define what it means to bolt on real performance — starting under the hood and working all the way back through the exhaust.

Hedman's roots run deep in American motorsport culture. The brand first gained widespread recognition among drag racers who discovered that swapping factory exhaust manifolds for a set of Hedman's tuned-length exhaust headers was one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to free up horsepower. By allowing exhaust gases to exit the engine more efficiently, headers reduce back pressure and improve scavenging — translating directly into stronger throttle response and peak power. That same engineering philosophy carries through every product Hedman makes today.

Built for GM, Ford, and Mopar Enthusiasts

Hedman Hedders has always focused on fitment for the most iconic American performance platforms. Whether you're building a classic Chevy small-block, a Ford 302, or a big-block Mopar, Hedman has engineered a solution. Their catalog spans street, street/strip, and full race applications, with header coatings ranging from bare mild steel to ceramic-coated finishes designed to handle extreme heat and resist corrosion over the long haul.

Beyond the headers themselves, Hedman supports a complete exhaust assembly with purpose-built companion components. Properly sealed connections start with quality exhaust header gaskets — an often-overlooked part that, when of poor quality, leads to annoying leaks and lost performance. Hedman's gaskets are designed to match their header port dimensions for a reliable, leak-free seal. Equally important are the fasteners: exhaust manifold bolts and springs provide the secure, vibration-resistant clamping force needed to keep every joint tight through heat cycles and hard driving.

Completing a clean exhaust installation also means getting the collector and pipe connections right. Hedman's exhaust flanges ensure properly aligned, leak-free transitions between the header collector and the rest of the exhaust system — a small detail that makes a big difference in both performance and sound quality.

Smog-Legal and Street-Friendly Options

Hedman understands that not every build is a dedicated race car. For vehicles that need to pass emissions inspections, Hedman offers smog-legal header configurations compatible with factory secondary air injection systems. Their lineup includes components related to secondary air injection compatibility, making it easier to run a performance header without sacrificing street legality.

Decades of Proven Performance

With over 228 products in their catalog and a heritage stretching back to the earliest days of the performance aftermarket, Hedman Hedders remains a go-to brand for enthusiasts who want proven engineering, broad vehicle coverage, and the kind of brand credibility that only comes from 70+ years of building parts that actually work. From weekend cruisers to dedicated strip machines, Hedman has a header — and the hardware to back it up.