Shorty Headers..
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,752
Likes: 62
From: New Madison Ohio
Shorty Headers..
I have a question for you guys running shorty headers. This is not a question on which is better long tubes or shorties, but rather a general question. I was wondering if you guys are running the original or aftermarket boot protectors. I am running the GM Performance red wires with no boot protectors at this time with the original factory exhaust manifolds. I ordered a pair of shorties for ease of fitment and looks more than the performance end of them. They are ceramic coated. Just wondering if the added expense of boot protectors is worth it? Thanks for any looks or advice.
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2017
Posts: 85
Likes: 27
From: Cape Cod, MA
2018 C5 of Year Finalist
Worth is dictated by value to individual. You seemed to think shorties were "worth it" so why question the boot protectors? Do you want to run them? If so do it, in not don't, what's the worst thing that can happen? I have non ceramic coated long tubes with the oem booties, everything is fine and dandy over here.
Banned Scam/Spammer
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 15,685
Likes: 1,330
From: Machineguns, because I don’t compromise
I’ve never run boot protectors even on an LS1 with twin turbos.
They aren’t of value to me, currently I have long tubes. Then again, I change out wear parts more often than most.
They aren’t of value to me, currently I have long tubes. Then again, I change out wear parts more often than most.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 30,278
Likes: 4,577
From: Bonita Springs, Florida
I went to the extreme with heat protection. I had my Kooks long tube headers ceramic coated. I installed Taylor Thundervolt 50, 10.4MM spark plug wires which can withstand heat up to 600 degrees F but still protected them with Summit Racing 8" Spark Plug Wire and Boot protectors (p/n: SUM-350140BLK) which are guaranteed up to 1,200 degrees F: https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-350140blk
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 5,386
Likes: 3,925
From: Cincinnati, OH
It's a shame you went shorties thinking they install easier. A decent set of LT's install just as easy and you get more for your money...but it is what it is at this point.
DEI also offers nice boot protectors as well.
DEI also offers nice boot protectors as well.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 7,427
Likes: 4,826
From: BEST Corn-Nation
2015 C5 of the Year Winner
I've had the unfortunate trouble with a plug boot coming in contact with a header and melted it to the point it was developing a miss. So when I put another set of wires on I put the aftermarket boot protectors on just in case. I've never had another issue but I think my problem was with the way the boot was made so I made sure not to get the same design boot. I will probably always run the boot protectors. I also am running the shortie headers but any header will be designed about the same so shortie or long tube doesn't really matter I don't think.
Forgot to add mine are also ceramic coated and I found a set of purple boots so I had to get them...lol
Forgot to add mine are also ceramic coated and I found a set of purple boots so I had to get them...lol
Last edited by mstromquist; Jun 4, 2019 at 12:12 PM.
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Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,752
Likes: 62
From: New Madison Ohio
I was at the end of my budget on a rebuild of my engine so I had to decide between the two. I like the sound of LSx with LT's on but my wife probably wouldn't ride with me anymore if it got any louder than it is..and she does like to ride in it..LOL..