Headers fry stuff under the hood. A blanket is made for the starter, and wrap for other vitals.
I did the header thing on my Olds Rocket 455. Today, I leave the stock cast irons on and do dual pipes. I build for low end anyway, it all comes on by 1500rpm.
With headers I had gasket leaks, rust, and went through starters. They look great new, but, I am not sure they are for me.
You are right in protecting components. They can really fry with headers.