Of course, installing exhaust headers is a pretty advanced procedure, and there is now way we can cover the specifics for any one vehicle, let alone all of them, in a short article. But, we can give you some tips on buying headers and layout the basic installation steps.
Exhaust Header Installation Steps
- Once your vehicle is jacked and secured, it’s time to start wrenching
- Disconnect the exhaust manifold from the exhaust system, under the car
- Remove any under-hood components blocking the exhaust manifold
- Disconnect all sensors and tubes from the exhaust manifold
- Disconnect and remove exhaust manifold from engine
- Slide headers in (this may have to happen from underneath) be patient
- Bolt headers to engine
- Reconnect all sensors and tubes (especially true for smog legal headers)
- Reconnect exhaust system underneath vehicle (or bolt on new system)
- Fire it up and wake the neighbors
Exhaust Shopping Tips
Right after installation, you may see and definitely smell smoke and fumes coming from and off of the new headers. Never fear, this is simply the protective oil-based coating used in the manufacturing and packing processes. Once those tubes reach normal operating temperatures, the smoke’ll disappear, leaving only performance in it’s wake.
When shopping for headers, always stick with the proven brands. For truck headers like Dodge Ram headers and Ford F150 headers, Gibson Headers are super popular. For street machines, both Borla and Corsa exhaust craft beautiful all-stainless headers. Stick with the big brands and you always get a quality product with a great organization backing it up. Don't forget to check out the exhaust headers tech center on our site if you need more information.
Wrapping up the Exhaust Header Install Job
Once those clunky cast iron exhaust manifolds are out and your new power-producing exhaust headers are in, stand by for some serious changes. More horsepower, more torque and better throttle response are just the beginning. The real cherry on top of this project is the gnarly grumble that let’s your competition know you mean business.
