I have been scouring these threads for a while, looking for info on header/exhaust systems. I have a '08 C-6, The only engine mode I have done was a halltech killer bee/bee hive.

I actually did notice more power when I swapped the intake, it also sounds a little better with out the sound dampening box. Unfortunately I live in the People's republic of California, so I am going to have to go with a system which will not make me cuss at the smog station.

I am looking for more power, will tell the wife it is for better fuel economy

I have listened to a ton of youtube vids, I think the magnaflow sounds good. I would like to go with coated headers (I live in 100+ degree heat) and a complete exhaust system. Anyone know a place where you can get a good package deal? Anyone install the magnaflows with headers? Good power gains?

The current exhaust is stock, with one exception, the previous owner had a muffler shop weld in a piece to make a homemade x-pipe. He used cheap material and I would just as soon take it all out and go with lighter/stronger stuff.

I will have the local speed shop do the install (They have the lift), then they will put it on a flat-bed a take it 200 miles away for the dyno/tune (No dyno in my city)

There are so many different systems/combinations it gets a bit convoluted trying to make a decision. I am really curious to what others have done and if there are any good package deals where I can at least save some $ on Shipping

 

Dont live in Cal but wouldnt putting headers on a car there give you big headaches at the smog station inspection?

 

I had been running LG Pros (w/cats) and the Magnaflow axle back on my '08 until very recently. Great sound, moderately loud sound level but not obnoxious. Power (credit the LGs) was 433rwhp, with K&N intake, ported intake/TB and tuning being the other mods. The LGs make really good mid-range power (my rwtq was 431). But I didn't want issues any more with the peoples republic of New Jersey.

 

Find a complete Z06 exhaust. Problems solved. Pick up some HP and pass inspection. No brainer. You might sacrafice 5-10 Hp over headers. Throw on Pipdreams NPP ina box and have the bost of both worlds. Should be able to pick up a nice complete system for under $1000. The wife will love ya for it.

 

So why did you remove them? Did they mess with you at the inspection?

 

So the manifolds from the LS7 will bolt right up to the LS3? How much better flow are they over the stock LS3 manifolds?

 

I just had this mod done. The LS7 manifolds are a direct bolt on to the LS3. Just get LS7 gaskets.

 

Mine was an LS2 MN6 and bolted right up. Only issue is on the auto where the 3" pipe is really close to the tranny pan but there are fixes to this as many have done. Also used the LS7 gaskets. Real close to the same flow as a shorty header, the long tubes will give you a little more HP but not a lot and you get to pass inspection for those that have it with the LS7 exhaust.

 

So I can install the LS7 manifolds/gaskets and get an exhaust system of my choice? Either the z06 system or an aftermarket for the z06. This car is a manual trans so the clearance should be ok?

about 20 years ago I had mustang with a 289HP, it had stock headers and it was never a problem to smog it, maybe because it was OEM. I am not aware of the laws now, I always thought headers were not illegal, if you had the emissions style. Now they have this CARB approval pay the extortion fee crap, so I really dont know. Anyone out there in California try this?

 

Yes these are similar to the factory headers of years past. These plus the cats, H pipe and you will be able to match up any muffler system designed for the Z06. Pull a search and you will find all kinds of info on this switch including pics of the Z06 manifolds next to the stock. I as well as many others on here have done this switch and I stayed with the Z06 mufflers to be able to go from mild 2 wild. You will need to ask some one from California that has done this about your other question.