I'm prepared to catch a lot of flak for posting this, and that's why it's here and not in the general section...I understand the search feature, but times and common procedures change. I just want to know what all I need for this install and what to look out for. Right now it's a bone stock Z06, but I got a great deal on a set of barely used 1 7/8" LG headers, and the whole system was ceramic coated too. I know the smaller primary would be more ideal for my car, but I couldn't pass up this deal. I intend to run them with a Vararam, VMax ported TB, and my existing B&B Bullets.

So far I know I'll be changing plugs and wires, and definitely get some heat shields for my wires. I know I should probably purchase some better lap band clamps. I can't remember if I will need 6 or 8. At this point I won't be getting a tunnel plate, but I will in the future. Will I be introducing a lot of heat into the cabin by doing this? Also I heard I'll have some trouble hooking up the AIR system (which I intend to keep. I am in CA so I will be removing the system every 2 years). I'm probably going to re-use my factory bolts as I don't see a reason to spend 100 on ARP. Now for the gaskets, some say F-Body LS1 gaskets and other say LS2. Not sure which is better. Thanks in advance. Please don't hate me lol

 

Get a tunnel insulation kit, DEI has the stick-on that I use on both my C5Z & my 07 Z51, huge difference inside cabin. Use stock exhaust manifold gaskets, re-use your old bolts unless you really want more "show". If the headers don't have the AIR hookup bungs, you'll probably need to have them welded into the headers, I'm sure someone from CA can chime in & share their experience. 1 7/8 primaries will have an effect on low rpm torque, they are way overkill for a stock LS6... just so you know what you're getting into...

 

The headers already have the AIR provisions. I understand that the 1 3/4" would definitely have better mid range than what I have, but I don't mind it as long as I'm not losing power over bone stock. These give me room to grow when it comes time for the A&A kit as well.

 

I'd believe the midrange would be similar - it's the low-end in question

I'd spring for ARP, esp installing/uninstalling repeatedly

 

Worse low end than a completely stock car? Even with the aforementioned full bolt ons and tune?

 

From what I understand, yes. Boltons and Tune will mitigate this some definitely. Whether or not this will be troublesome, depends on your threshold for real world performance...you might get over it fast