I have a 99 Civic with a B-series swap. This may sound stupid but I thought I would ask anyway. Will an aftermarket header like Greddy or DC stick out the same amount as a Stock header? The reason I ask is that the other day I tried to take my heat shield out and could not, The a/c fan was in the way. I was just wondering if an aftermarket header will fit in there fine? I am worried it wont.
Is there anything I can do to get the heat shield/header out without messing with the A/C? And no I am not going to take away a/c.

Here are pics of how tight the spot is:

 

You sure you got all the heat shield bolts?

 

Yes I am 100% sure. I was able to move the heat shield up and down, I was even able to turn it sideways. I just could not get it out from the top or bottom.

Back on topic does an aftermarket header stick out the same as the stock header? And will I have problems with it fitting?

 

yes, aftermarket will fit...by the way, I have a JDM 4-1 for sale h: for all seriousness, an aftermarket header will fit just fine, as long as it is from a reputable company

 

Good, I was getting worried that it wouldnt.