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C5Z + Speed Engineering headers

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Old Dec 2, 2019 | 02:01 PM
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Default C5Z + Speed Engineering headers

Hi guys,

Been reading lots of reviews on here about these headers. One common question / complaint seems to be integration with stock cat-back. With a Z06 you have a titanium exhaust to add to the complexity. Normally, I would just weld the connection point. Has anyone used these headers with the stock titanium cat-back? If so, how did you deal with connecting the speed engineering x-pipe to the factory cat-back?

Thanks,
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Old Dec 3, 2019 | 06:18 AM
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The Speed Engineering X-pipe doesn't directly connect to the cat-back. You have to cut the ends off of your existing X-pipe, whether it be stock or aftermarket, right after it bends outwards toward the cat back. The kit comes with reducers to clamp those 'legs' into and the existing cat-back will bolt to the same flanges it was already connected to
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Old Dec 3, 2019 | 12:46 PM
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The mid pipes which need to be cut are not titanium on a Z06
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Old Dec 3, 2019 | 01:06 PM
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Thanks for the help, this makes perfect sense.

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Old Dec 4, 2019 | 02:28 PM
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When I installed these headers, I initially followed the process explained by INSTIG8R above. I was not satisfied with the results and had continual issues with proper sealing of the joints. Current state, I ended up purchasing a Corsa X-pipe (coupled with my Corsa Xtreme axle-back) and used that to replace the X-pipe section provided by Speed Engineering. As a result, I only had to reduce/couple 2 joints of exhaust piping that were a straight run. With SS 4" wide band clamps, I was easily able to seal those straight joints and overall exhaust alignment is significantly better.

That doesn't necessarily solve your issue, but it does provide a solid connection to the axle-back portion of your exhaust and eliminates the need to seal weird none-straight exhaust joints.
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Old Dec 4, 2019 | 08:48 PM
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One thing we had to do on some mustang exhausts back in the day was use this stuff on joints, which would help them seal up a little bit easier.

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/p...QaAoqNEALw_wcB

also, some dudes would get a set of these and tighten up the joints a bit during assembly as well.

https://www.amazon.com/Newsmarts-Exhaust-Expander-Muffler-Spreader/dp/B07LCM3PM7/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=pipe+expander&qid=1575508431&sr=8-13#customerReviews https://www.amazon.com/Newsmarts-Exhaust-Expander-Muffler-Spreader/dp/B07LCM3PM7/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=pipe+expander&qid=1575508431&sr=8-13#customerReviews

I will be using both when I install my Speed Engineering headers and exhaust.


Last edited by CinciZ06; Dec 4, 2019 at 08:49 PM.
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Old Dec 4, 2019 | 09:20 PM
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Look into TPS RPM headers 1 7/8" and stainless (vendors here), I had AMAZING fitment. NO messing with motor mounts/steering shaft etc. dropped right in.
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Old Feb 13, 2021 | 08:56 PM
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I would like raise this thread again with a very specific ask about SE header kit and integration with 2001 C5Z cats.

Question: Can these SE headers be connected to factory cats with fabrication?

My 01 C5Z (pup cats and cats) will have a Corsa extreme cat back installed soon. So this is a Corsa X pipe attached behind primary cats.
-> JBA also makes affordable LTs that include connection pipes. Not sure they still sell them (ie part# 6818S) which includes connection pipes.

I would like to add LTs by connecting headers to factory cats (and removing pup cat section). In the end, really just want to salvage oem cats which I think will really take the edge of the volume of the Corsa Extremes and remove fuel smell.

Open to ideas

Thx

Last edited by Suspekt360; Feb 13, 2021 at 08:59 PM.
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Old Feb 18, 2021 | 09:36 AM
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Originally Posted by Suspekt360@gmail.com
I would like raise this thread again with a very specific ask about SE header kit and integration with 2001 C5Z cats.

Question: Can these SE headers be connected to factory cats with fabrication?

My 01 C5Z (pup cats and cats) will have a Corsa extreme cat back installed soon. So this is a Corsa X pipe attached behind primary cats.
-> JBA also makes affordable LTs that include connection pipes. Not sure they still sell them (ie part# 6818S) which includes connection pipes.

I would like to add LTs by connecting headers to factory cats (and removing pup cat section). In the end, really just want to salvage oem cats which I think will really take the edge of the volume of the Corsa Extremes and remove fuel smell.

Open to ideas

Thx
I'm very curious about the JBA long tubes as well. Havnt seen many posts about them and they are very affordable and look like theyll fit factory cats
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Old Feb 18, 2021 | 07:29 PM
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my long tubes extend into the area where the factory cats. are located. it's like the collectors are a little long which will push the factory cats back too far. i'll have to solve this problem by buying aftermarket cats. would really like to use the factory cats but they will only fit into the area where the frame flares out for them and the extra collector length messes that up.
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