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Thinking of adding long tube headers and an x pipe to my Billy Boat exhaust. Before I purchase headers, 2 questions. Do I have to pull the engine to install the headers? What brand are you partial to? The x pipe would be Biily Boat as well, unless I ran across a deal in another brand.
No, you certainly do NOT need to pull the engine to install the headers. There are several good brands. I personally think that Kooks are the best. They have great fit. With that said, in most cases your x-pipe needs to match the headers, not the catback.
No, you certainly do NOT need to pull the engine to install the headers. There are several good brands. I personally think that Kooks are the best. They have great fit. With that said, in most cases your x-pipe needs to match the headers, not the catback.
Thank you for the information. I figured the x pipe would need to match the catback. The x pipe matching the headers makes more sense for fitment. With that being said, is it best to just have the same brand from front to back?
It's not a bad option to have the same brand from front to back. However, it isn't really necessary. You really do want the same brand of headers and x-pipe though. Once you start shopping, you see that most places that sell headers will also sell the x-pipe as part of a package. Depending on the brand you choose, you'll also need to decide between high flow cats or catless x-pipe. Check your local laws. some sates do not allow a catless setup.
No, you certainly do NOT need to pull the engine to install the headers. There are several good brands. I personally think that Kooks are the best. They have great fit. With that said, in most cases your x-pipe needs to match the headers, not the catback.
Kooks are not cheap but they are the easiest to install and fitment and quality are great.
Only thing I’ll add is, get a catted X-pipe unless you love the smell of raw gas in your garage and in your clothes!
Edit: I had mine ceramic coated as well to help with under hood temps.
I agree on both.
I bought the Kooks X-pipe with hi flow green cats and had the headers ceramic coated. I also shielded the starter, wrapped every wire, wire connection and any brake lines near the header tubes in Summit Racing hi-temp wire wrap. I also used hi-temp spark plug wire socks/protectors.
I bought the Kooks X-pipe with hi flow green cats and had the headers ceramic coated. I also shielded the starter, wrapped every wire, wire connection and any brake lines near the header tubes in Summit Racing hi-temp wire wrap. I also used hi-temp spark plug wire socks/protectors.
Now the my question is, is it worth all of that for headers? What's the benefit?
I've had KOOKS for over 15 years, so they definitely last. ARH (American Racing Headers), LG Motorsports, and Stainless Works are also very good, though I can't say how well/easy their install is, or fitment quality is. I also went with the KOOKS 3" X-pipe, and the plug wire insulators (Kool Socks). I wish I would've had them ceramic coated, but it's never too late!! Headers not only improve power, but can also improve fuel mileage slightly, IF you can keep your foot out of it!!!
I went with Texas Speed 1 3/4 long tubes and their off road x pipe. Had absolutely no issues with fitment. No wrap or coating and my temps run the same as before. I did install spark plug boots.
Now the my question is, is it worth all of that for headers? What's the benefit?
Long tube headers are worth 25+ whp and more with engine power modifications but mostly because I like the sound and the way they look under the hood. And I just wanted to do it.
It is a personal satisfaction benefit for me. I keep my cars a long time and tend to make changes and modifications to keep things fresh and interesting. Exhaust modifications are the most enjoyable for me. Makes my daily commute so much better.
[QUOTE=PerryKing;1603906399]I went with Texas Speed 1 3/4 long tubes and their off road x pipe. Had absolutely no issues with fitment. No wrap or coating and my temps run the same as before. I did install spark plug boots.
Now the my question is, is it worth all of that for headers? What's the benefit?
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My view is only install long tubes headers if you plan other power booster mods. As a stand alone mod, you pay a steep price for an extra 20-25 HP. Expect to spend near $2000 or so, more if you get them ceramic coated. All the little extras like Cool Socks for the plug wires, maybe an insulated tunnel plates, etc., add to the cost. It’s not uncommon to have install issues like burned O2 sensor wires. Are you getting it dyno tuned afterwards? That’s probably another $400-500. Something to think about.
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My view is only install long tubes headers if you plan other power booster mods. As a stand alone mod, you pay a steep price for an extra 20-25 HP. Expect to spend near $2000 or so, more if you get them ceramic coated. All the little extras like Cool Socks for the plug wires, maybe an insulated tunnel plates, etc., add to the cost. It’s not uncommon to have install issues like burned O2 sensor wires. Are you getting it dyno tuned afterwards? That’s probably another $400-500. Something to think about.
No, I do plan on other power booster mods like a supercharger if that is what you meant. I appreciate that input. Maybe just an x pipe to go with the axle back exhaust? Or skip that as well. Thoughts?
Get the x pipe with cats if you have bullet exhaust, it’s going to be loud enough. Without the cats, it’s almost like a straight through system, you won’t be able to have a conversation in the car. And the smell of exhaust will follow you everywhere.
Installing long tube headers
