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What do headers do?

Old Jul 21, 2005 | 08:47 PM
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Default What do headers do?

I see a lot of you guys recommend getting a pair of headers for increased power. How do these increase hp and do they change the sound of the exhaust by themselves? I have a stock '04 and am considering an after-market exhaust, and would consider upgrading the whole system if there's a benefit to it. Any dyno proof to back up headers? THanks, AD
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Old Jul 21, 2005 | 09:10 PM
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You might start here:

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/question172.htm

Paul
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Old Jul 21, 2005 | 09:55 PM
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Thanks for the info. Any reports from those who've done this mod in terms of hp increases?
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Old Jul 21, 2005 | 11:35 PM
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Sure. I have LG's. For me there a perfect match with my Ti exhaust. As far as the sound change goes it is louder at WOT but not as much as changing to a different cat back system. No resonance, great sounding at WOT. I saw HP and torque increases at low end and high end. You will get a little more engine noise. Similar to a ticking sound due to the thinner materials of a header vs a cast manifold.
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Old Jul 22, 2005 | 12:15 AM
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My 02 Z06 is making 375 RWHP and 365 Tq using Stainless Works 1 3/4" primary SS headers with a 3" mid section with an X pipe and I also have a VARARAM Intake. I saw about 30 HP without a Dyno Tune and after the tune I was making a solid 40 HP . If you add headers, you will most likley need to tune it.

Here are some pictures and stuff:











If you are going to do any more HP mods in the future, headers and a good exhaust system will complment any future MODs.

BC
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Old Jul 22, 2005 | 09:16 AM
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I have the LG 3" system, and noticed a rather substantial difference in HP/TQ, it also woke up my B&B PRT's. Sounds and feels great.
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Old Jul 22, 2005 | 09:19 AM
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Originally Posted by Bill Curlee
My 02 Z06 is making 375 RWHP and 365 Tq using Stainless Works 1 3/4" primary SS headers with a 3" mid section with an X pipe and I also have a VARARAM Intake. I saw about 30 HP without a Dyno Tune and after the tune I was making a solid 40 HP . If you add headers, you will most likley need to tune it.

If you are going to do any more HP mods in the future, headers and a good exhaust system will complment any future MODs.

BC
Are these Street legal, and WILL they Pass Smog in California... ?
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Old Jul 24, 2005 | 09:23 PM
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I'm thinking hard about getting headers myself... BUT NOW.. I see where some folks are having trouble codes come up as a result of the O2 sensors not working correctly. I want the horsepower but not the aggravation.

Just how many folks do have the trouble codes come up??

Thanks.
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Old Jul 24, 2005 | 09:39 PM
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My Stainless Works headers have 4 bungs, use all of the sensors and I have never had one code due to the header install.


BC
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Old Jul 24, 2005 | 11:59 PM
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Originally Posted by Vette_Fan
Are these Street legal, and WILL they Pass Smog in California... ?
I dont think there are ANY full length headers that will pass emmissions in CA
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