A few questions about adding headers to my straightpipe setup.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 42
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A few questions about adding headers to my straightpipe setup.
I've had Borla Straightpipes on my car for quite a while now and I love the sound but I want to add a bit of power. I've read around and it looks like longtube headers are the way to go right now. Here is what the car sounds like now:
Here are my concerns:
1. Will adding headers and an xpipe refine the sound or just make it REALLY loud?
2. Does it really matter much what brand I use as long as I use a reputable one?
3. Do I need to have someone tune my car? What about sensors getting thrown off if I go catless?
4. If it really will be too loud is there a more cost efficient way to get a few horsepower? (Rather than buying a completely new exhaust system including mufflers)
Edit: The only power mod I have on right now is a Vararam with a powerduct.
Here are my concerns:
1. Will adding headers and an xpipe refine the sound or just make it REALLY loud?
2. Does it really matter much what brand I use as long as I use a reputable one?
3. Do I need to have someone tune my car? What about sensors getting thrown off if I go catless?
4. If it really will be too loud is there a more cost efficient way to get a few horsepower? (Rather than buying a completely new exhaust system including mufflers)
Edit: The only power mod I have on right now is a Vararam with a powerduct.
Last edited by Lmoyers; Apr 8, 2015 at 05:35 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 966
Likes: 9
From: Phoenix AZ
I have Borla straight pipes as well. I'll try and anwer a couple of your questions.
When I added long tubes and an x-pipe (XS Power), it definitely sounded more refined in that the "boat-like gurgling" sound was smoothed out, but it was a bit louder and added a bit more drone to the cabin (it's a lot louder now that I've added cam+supercharger).
At the time I didn't get a full tune but did have the rear O2 sensor codes disabled. If you aren't planning any more immediate mods, a good tune is worth it, usually even on a bone stock car.
Regarding the XS Power headers, I've had them for several years now and have had zero issues. They still look good and there are no signs of bad welds or rusting. For the price I think they are a great value. Now that I'm supercharged, in hindsight I would have gone with a larger primary (these are 1-3/4"). No complaints though.
Hope this helps.
When I added long tubes and an x-pipe (XS Power), it definitely sounded more refined in that the "boat-like gurgling" sound was smoothed out, but it was a bit louder and added a bit more drone to the cabin (it's a lot louder now that I've added cam+supercharger).
At the time I didn't get a full tune but did have the rear O2 sensor codes disabled. If you aren't planning any more immediate mods, a good tune is worth it, usually even on a bone stock car.
Regarding the XS Power headers, I've had them for several years now and have had zero issues. They still look good and there are no signs of bad welds or rusting. For the price I think they are a great value. Now that I'm supercharged, in hindsight I would have gone with a larger primary (these are 1-3/4"). No complaints though.
Hope this helps.
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2013
Posts: 42
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That helps a lot actually. Good to hear from someone with the same pipes that I have. I'm going to shop around for a good setup and wait till my brother comes down this summer before I actually do any work.
The mention of worsening done is kind of a bummer though. My drone is already pretty noticeable at certain rpms but only when it's windows up and roof on haha. I'll look into how to reduce that because I know people have some tricks.
Thanks for the info.
The mention of worsening done is kind of a bummer though. My drone is already pretty noticeable at certain rpms but only when it's windows up and roof on haha. I'll look into how to reduce that because I know people have some tricks.
Thanks for the info.
