LT Headers
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 815
Likes: 192
From: Massillon, OH
LT Headers
I have tried searching and have found very little results.....So, I have a few questions for those that have longtubes on their C5.....
1. How long did it take you to install? I have installed longtubes on my old LT1 TransAm and it took a good 10-12 hours. I am not a "mechanic" but comfortable doing easy things like brakes, oil changes, axle bearings, etc. (I can get access to a lift if needed.)
2. I have my front bolts completely removed and my rear bolts only have 3 threads showing. What brand headers would be best for not scraping? (I know C5 headers are expensive, but I would rather not throw down $1200 bucks for longtubes.)
3. Did any of you have problems with the manifold bolts breaking? I broke two on my LT1 and I'm worried about my C5 bolts. Car has 97k and is insanely clean, but the manifold bolts for sure look rusty.
I appreciate it in advance! Sorry if this has all been covered before. Like I said, I found little information as most threads I read had one related comment before it got hijacked.
1. How long did it take you to install? I have installed longtubes on my old LT1 TransAm and it took a good 10-12 hours. I am not a "mechanic" but comfortable doing easy things like brakes, oil changes, axle bearings, etc. (I can get access to a lift if needed.)
2. I have my front bolts completely removed and my rear bolts only have 3 threads showing. What brand headers would be best for not scraping? (I know C5 headers are expensive, but I would rather not throw down $1200 bucks for longtubes.)
3. Did any of you have problems with the manifold bolts breaking? I broke two on my LT1 and I'm worried about my C5 bolts. Car has 97k and is insanely clean, but the manifold bolts for sure look rusty.
I appreciate it in advance! Sorry if this has all been covered before. Like I said, I found little information as most threads I read had one related comment before it got hijacked.
Last edited by REDSEE5; Nov 10, 2016 at 07:14 PM. Reason: Forgot something
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,753
Likes: 1,212
From: Wisconsin
I can't tell how long it took because I did heads and cam at the same time.
any of the good brands won't scrape, ARH, Kooks, LG, and they fit without having to bend the tunnel to get the O2 sensors to clear.
On a lift it's a easy job, my bolts came right out no problem
any of the good brands won't scrape, ARH, Kooks, LG, and they fit without having to bend the tunnel to get the O2 sensors to clear.
On a lift it's a easy job, my bolts came right out no problem
1/4 mile/AutoX
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 11,440
Likes: 2,184
From: Buffalo Texas
I am very happy with my ZS Power headers with high flow cats for 800 dollars, I also did other mods at the same time, not really a bad job, stay patience !! (did I spell that right ?)
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 30,361
Likes: 4,582
From: Bonita Springs, Florida
I added Kooks 1 3/4 long tube headers (ceramic coated) with Kooks matching x-pipe with hi-flow green cats and their mid pipes and everything fit well and tucked under nicely after some adjusting. I went with the Kooks x-pipe with catted hi flow green cats so that the car wouldn't throw any codes at start up. They advertise that this is 95% not 100% guaranteed but my '99 did not throw any codes after I started it up after the installation. No tune and still no codes 2 1/2 months later. The new Kooks headers are easiest to install compared with any of the other brands. They slip in from underneath without removing anything except the ground wire and no need to jack up the engine. You do have to remove the alternator and bracket when removing the driver side exhaust manifold. I suggest replacing belts while you have them removed. The entire installation took about 5 1/2 hours with belt replacement.
Link to my thread about the install with some pictures: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...rs-are-in.html
Link to my thread about the install with some pictures: https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...rs-are-in.html
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 12,466
Likes: 886
From: Fort Wayne IN
2025 C5 of the Year Finalist - Modified
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Depends on the headers. I did LG Super Pro's on my car a few years back (before the turbo's) pretty quick going in through the top. ARH headers slide in VERY easily from underneath, but car has to be high. I did a set of Kooks 1 7/8" for a guy and that was a freaking nightmare.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 30,361
Likes: 4,582
From: Bonita Springs, Florida
Depends on the headers. I did LG Super Pro's on my car a few years back (before the turbo's) pretty quick going in through the top. ARH headers slide in VERY easily from underneath, but car has to be high. I did a set of Kooks 1 7/8" for a guy and that was a freaking nightmare.
Racer
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 437
Likes: 39
From: PA
I have good news for you OP, putting LT's on a C5 is considerably easier than on an LT1 F-Body. I've put LT headers on all the LT1's I've owned and prefer not to remember the hell I've gone through doing so haha. I put Kooks LT's (redesigned ones) on my C5Z about 6 months ago and it was an easy, drama free install. Both headers slipped on in from underneath. The ARH LT's are another excellent option to consider, like the Kooks they are known for their quality and ease of install. I am lowered and have never scraped my Kooks and doubt you will with any of the higher quality LT's.
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Racer
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 336
Likes: 40
From: Longview WA
I have the Hinson 1 7/8 - We removed one bolt on the bottom clutch cover for clearance(driver side header). Also had to make some adjustments to the X pipe.
o2 sensors cleared, but the passenger side one is kinda close
They also do not scrape on the ground, about the same depth as other parts of the car. (my dynatech sat much, much lower.)
o2 sensors cleared, but the passenger side one is kinda close
They also do not scrape on the ground, about the same depth as other parts of the car. (my dynatech sat much, much lower.)
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 1,030
Likes: 72
From: Seminole, FL
Long Tube Headers. (Kooks here)
I installed my long tubes using the instruction sheet I got off their website.
Jacked engine, one side at a time, and they almost climbed in by themselves.
Very easy once I read the instructions.
From the top, Jack stands in the driveway.
Also did the high flow cats and X pipe.
a couple of hours.
Jacked engine, one side at a time, and they almost climbed in by themselves.
Very easy once I read the instructions.
From the top, Jack stands in the driveway.
Also did the high flow cats and X pipe.
a couple of hours.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 3,909
Likes: 26
From: Clymer PA
I too will be purchasing headers and a x-pipe (catless) in the near future and am also interested in hearing opinions on the different brands. I was looking a Stainless Steel Works headers/x-pipe. Anyone have any experiences or opinions on them?