REDSEE5

Hi, guys! First post in the C6 section as I recently upgraded from my C5. I purchased a 05 C6 M6 Lemans Blue with 92k. I have a set of TSP 1 7/8 headers and OR xpipe on the way so I decided to start the prep work after work today. I put the Vette up on jackstands (not too high, yet,) removed the factory H-pipe, and removed the plug wires. Surprisingly, everything came out insanely easy. Just a few questions for those who installed their own LTs.

1. Did you re-use the stock spark plug wires? Did you add sleeves to them to protect from heat?
2. Has anyone reading this ever had a manifold bolt break when doing a header install on a LS2? Yes, I know there are threads about this, but I figured I would get an updated answer. I tested 3-4 bolts and they all came out smoothly. I put them right back in as my engine was still luke warm. Didnt want to cause any issues with the aluminum heads.
3. Anyone purchase and install Texas Speed LTs and Xpipe? Did you have to remove the alternator and starter?
4. Planning on using stock manifold bolts. Bad idea?
5. Going to use replacement GM gaskets from TSP. Or should I use the stock?


Hoping I have enough ground clearance to complete this install on jackstands! Thanks, all!

Todds427

Got to lift pretty high on jack stands to get enough clearance for drivers side. I did have to remove the starter because I wrapped the starter so it would not get all the heat and burn out. I used the same bolts, wires and plugs. I used GM gaskets which were recommended by others too. Good luck, it took me about 4 hours to replace whole setup (I did have one bolt stick on stock manifold, which took me awhile to get out).

cmonkey713

I have installed longitudes on jack stands but you have to get the car pretty high off the ground to the point where it is awkward to work. Best advise I have is find a lift that you can use or even rent, it will make things much easier, safer and quicker.

Not So Fast

Yes we did mine ourselves
1. Bought new plugs, MSD wires, Dei Boots
2. No, but I suggest working on a cold car, especially plugs
3. No, bought Kooks 1 3/4", didn't have to remove anything but exhaust system
4. Kooks supplied new Stage 8 locking bolts
5. I used the ones supplied by, you guessed it, Kooks
Every thing needed was supplied with the headers.
I cant even imagine doing the install on jack stands, sorry.
Good luck, it will all be over soon and you'll be grinning
NSF

REDSEE5

Thanks guys! Feeling pretty positive about everything right now, but I'm sure I will run into a ton of trouble once I actually start.

On a positive note, I've installed a few sets of LTs on 4th gen f-bodies. There is no way in hell a C6 header install could be worse.

russ472

don't forget to buy O2 sensor extension wires

Blk 08 C6

Piece of cake you can do it.Sorry installed mine on my lift.LG super pro 1 7/8.

mrk1957

I installed Hinson long tubes on my '06. It took about an hour on jack stands. Piece of cake. Use APR header bolts.

Twayneo1

I recently installed an MSD dyna force starter. Do you think ill have any issues? I've got some lg super pros 1 7/8" that are ceramic coated coming soon. Also does anyone know if connecting a 2 1/2'' axle back to the 3" x-pipe defeats the purpose of the headers? and will they even connect?

Turbo6TA

I had a set of Pfadt headers with catted x-pipe installed on my GS.

Used the stock OEM exhaust manifold bolts and the stock OEM exhaust manifold gaskets.

Used the stock OEM plug wires .... but did install high temp sleeves.

If you look close, you can see the black colored sleeves over the OEM plug wires in the photo below:

mrk1957

I see you mentioned broken manifold bolts. I had 2 that were broken, you can find this out ahead of time. Like you say, there's various threads on the subject. Mine were easily remove since I had part of the bolt to grab hold of. Otherwise if nothing to grab onto, it's still doable, if you have the tools and know how.

Not So Fast

Damn Ron, our cars are so much alike its not funny
Bobby

REDSEE5

Thanks for all the replies, guys. Going to start removing the factory manifolds this evening after work. LTs should be at my house by end of day tomorrow! Here's hoping I won't have to disconnect the started or any steering equipment!

EviLS7

It does help to have a set of spare hands. I just did stainless works headers and offroad x pipe on mine and it wasnt bad everything fit, but had to modify the transmission cooler lines which they provided all the stuff to do it. But all in all easy to do on jack stands and just reused the stock gaskets and plug wires, but usually new headers come with extensions and new bolts.

REDSEE5

Update! Hoping the job continues to go smoothly. Factory exhaust hardware is removed. Not to jinx myself, but so far WAY easier than a 4th Gen Fbody!

unclecookie

Hope it continues to go smoothly for you

CaPilotMark

I love the CF look rail covers!

mrk1957

Looks like you got the hard part done. Getting the o2 sensors out of the manifolds is a little tricky. The rest is kind of fun and for sure rewarding!

REDSEE5

Ok....Stupid question so I'm preparing you guys ahead of time. The 02 extensions are to be used on the 02 harnesses that are at the TOP of the engine by the coil packs.....Correct?

Not So Fast

No stupid questions just answers You have 4 extensions right ? We plugged them in to the ends of the OEM harnesses then to the receptacles on the headers and Xpipe.
Try to route them of course so that they are not touching the pipes, obvious I know but none the less.
As another member said getting the 02 sensors out of the old places was a little harder than I thought it would be, I soaked them with liquid wrench also but we used the proper 02 socket and an impact to loosen it
Good luck and keep asking questions
NSF