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[Z06] long tube header question

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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 12:56 AM
  #1  
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Default long tube header question

I've been considering making some mods to my car. At this point, it is 100% stock. I've been considering long tube headers and a tune.

I would like to have a deeper sound in the exhaust and also pick up a few hp without sacrificing low-end torque.

My question is: would I gain anything by also adding the x-pipe or could I just have it attached to the existing ti pipes? I still want to be able ot pass inspection

Also what can I expect in terms of install cost?

Thanks
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 03:38 AM
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Originally Posted by Z0Cix
I've been considering making some mods to my car. At this point, it is 100% stock. I've been considering long tube headers and a tune.

I would like to have a deeper sound in the exhaust and also pick up a few hp without sacrificing low-end torque.

My question is: would I gain anything by also adding the x-pipe or could I just have it attached to the existing ti pipes? I still want to be able ot pass inspection

Also what can I expect in terms of install cost?

Thanks
I don't think you are understanding exhaust on our cars, or mustangs, camaros, etc.

We have exhaust manifolds which are stock. We replace these with headers, which is a performance version of the manifolds where air is pushed out from the heads.

Then, we have an intermediate or middle pipe. This pipe usually includes the cats. It also includes the crossover(X,Y,H pipe).

The catback/tailpipes(which is the TI) usually refers to the pipes after the mid pipe. This pipe includes the mufflers.

Yes, you will need to change the Headers and mid pipe. Most midpipes are included in a set from LG, TS, Kooks, American Racing, Melrose, etc. Most brands have the option of adding high flow cats, to stay legal, except in the country of Cali.

All headers with the proper mid pipe will bolt up to your TI mufflers.

Last edited by winters97gt; Dec 5, 2009 at 03:42 AM.
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 09:35 AM
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I am thinking of doing the same. Anyone have a manufacturer recommendation? I would like to keep the cats and have the ability to bolt up the stock exhaust if I ever sell. Want to keep the Ti at the rear.
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 12:19 PM
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All most every single brand can come with a catted midpipe. Kooks, AR, LG, etc. Mine don't, they are Texas Speed.
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 02:04 PM
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He's nailed it, the most popular brands for headers are American Racing, LGMotorsports, and Kooks - and if your on a budget look into OBX, I beleive they have a catted version coming soon.
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 03:06 PM
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Any particular brands easier to install?
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 04:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Edmond
Any particular brands easier to install?
Many reports that American Racing Headers are the easiest to install - and easier to work around in the event you have to say replace a cluth down the road.

I haven't installed LT Headers yet- but this forum's "search " function is very helpful as this is a topic that has had much discussion. Quality wise- seems you cannot go wrong with ARH; LG; Kooks, etc.

IMHO- if you are having a reputable shop install the headers, you may want to consider their recommendation.

Good Luck
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 07:57 PM
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Go with the sale. All mentioned are very good. American Headers are prefered by many shops, but that isn't saying much if they are catching discounts. If I was going to purchase again..... I would get..... most mentioned and what's on sale. LG's are very nice.
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Old Dec 5, 2009 | 08:36 PM
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I can recommend you the Melrose Smooth Flow exhaust system SF06RZ:
http://www.melroseheaders.com/produc...ms/c-6_z06.php.

They are jet hot coated inside and out, the quality is excellent.
I bought mine from Mid America Motorworks (http://www.mamotorworks.com/), part # 628-865.
You can see and hear them on my youtube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/Z06Ronald) under 'Favorites', or at the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRaEKAdNjBI.

I also have Billy Boat Fusions installed. Same story as for the Melrose's: excellent


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Old Dec 6, 2009 | 07:21 AM
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Originally Posted by winters97gt
I don't think you are understanding exhaust on our cars, or mustangs, camaros, etc.

We have exhaust manifolds which are stock. We replace these with headers, which is a performance version of the manifolds where air is pushed out from the heads.

Then, we have an intermediate or middle pipe. This pipe usually includes the cats. It also includes the crossover(X,Y,H pipe).

The catback/tailpipes(which is the TI) usually refers to the pipes after the mid pipe. This pipe includes the mufflers.

Yes, you will need to change the Headers and mid pipe. Most midpipes are included in a set from LG, TS, Kooks, American Racing, Melrose, etc. Most brands have the option of adding high flow cats, to stay legal, except in the country of Cali.

All headers with the proper mid pipe will bolt up to your TI mufflers.
Plus a new CAI, Honker, Blackwing, HalTech and a dyno tune.

So good ponies. Gitty Up
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Old Dec 6, 2009 | 07:58 AM
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I have Kooks with a catted X-pipe. Very nice headers and would buy them again.

I would also slip a cam in there at the same time, get it tuned and call it good. But that's just me...
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Old Dec 6, 2009 | 10:21 PM
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winters97gt,

I would like to thank you and all the others that responded. You are correct in that there is a lot I don't know but I learn something new every time I come here. Does anyone know if there would be any issues passing inspection with a header install?
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Old Dec 7, 2009 | 12:00 AM
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You should not have a problem with passing inspection. Many also recommend a tune with header installation.

Seems like Texas has quite a few places for mods, must speak to how friendly the state is towards sports car enthusiasts!
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Old Dec 7, 2009 | 01:32 AM
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Originally Posted by Z0Cix
winters97gt,

I would like to thank you and all the others that responded. You are correct in that there is a lot I don't know but I learn something new every time I come here. Does anyone know if there would be any issues passing inspection with a header install?
Not an issue, with, or without cats in Texas. I have not run cats in the last 11 years since I was 16 in Houston. There is not a sniffer in my county. Just a hookup to the computer, and a visual test. It's as simple as an extra 20 dollar handshake to have your car inspected.
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Old Dec 7, 2009 | 10:16 AM
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Enormous amount of information and gearheads at your command here! Spend some serious time learning before spending......Decide where you want to go with the new mods and use "search" for our encyclopedia of knowledge and argumentation... Your wallet will be your limitation.......Fortunately for you, there are some excellent forum sponsors that are in reach......GL
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Old Dec 7, 2009 | 11:01 AM
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BTW, long tube headers are illegal in Missouri (and probably other states), regardless as to whether they are CARB certified or have cats. Relocation of the factory 02 sensors makes them illegal. Granted, there aren't a whole lot of shops in St. Louis that are going to call you out on it.
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Old Dec 7, 2009 | 11:11 AM
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For power, performance, sound, and low end torque nothing is going to beat our 1 3/4" Pro Series Long Tubes. All of our kits come complete engine to mufflers including X pipe, and 02 sensor extensions.

The system is modular so for track events the cats can be removed.

Install at home can be done in roughly 4hrs start to finish using a floor jack, and hand tools. The engine does not have to be moved, the starter does not have to come off, and the steering shaft does not have to be dis-connected. You can see a full write up of instructions from our home page LG Motorsports
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Old Dec 8, 2009 | 07:51 AM
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Originally Posted by Anthony @ LGMotorsports
For power, performance, sound, and low end torque nothing is going to beat our 1 3/4" Pro Series Long Tubes. All of our kits come complete engine to mufflers including X pipe, and 02 sensor extensions.

The system is modular so for track events the cats can be removed.

Install at home can be done in roughly 4hrs start to finish using a floor jack, and hand tools. The engine does not have to be moved, the starter does not have to come off, and the steering shaft does not have to be dis-connected. You can see a full write up of instructions from our home page LG Motorsports
Anthony, in regards to post install of your LG header systems, how hard is it to do a clutch swap after they are installed? I like so far that not much has to be touched and moved to do the install, but im just thinking about my clutch eventually, stock clutch at 74k.
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Old Dec 8, 2009 | 08:29 AM
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I have LG Pros and just went through 2 clutch installs. They have to be disconnected from the heads and let hang loose (or removed).

Last edited by Tech; Dec 8, 2009 at 10:52 AM.
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Old Dec 8, 2009 | 10:37 AM
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Originally Posted by Tech
I have LG Pros and just went through 2 clutch installs. They have to been disconnected from the heads and let hang loose (or removed).
Exactly...just pull the rear section off, unbolt from the head and they will hang down enough to pull the clutch.
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