Exhaust Headers and Repairs | Pickups Plus Cars

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New Headers and Upgrades

Automotive header upgrades involve the replacement or enhancement of the stock exhaust manifold, commonly referred to as headers, to optimize engine performance. Headers are a crucial component of the exhaust system, responsible for collecting exhaust gases from the engine cylinders and channeling them into the exhaust system.

Upgrading to aftermarket headers typically includes using higher-quality materials such as stainless steel, improving exhaust flow with larger-diameter tubes, and incorporating design features like equal-length or tuned headers. These modifications aim to reduce backpressure, enhance exhaust scavenging, and improve overall engine efficiency. Automotive enthusiasts often choose header upgrades to unlock additional horsepower and torque.

Header Replacement and Upgrades

Short Tube Headers
Short tube headers are a popular category of aftermarket headers designed to replace the stock exhaust manifold. These headers feature shorter tubing lengths, making them easier to install and providing improved exhaust flow. While they may not provide as significant performance gains as long tube headers, they are a practical choice for enthusiasts seeking an upgrade with less installation complexity.
Long Tube Headers
Long tube headers have longer tubing lengths, typically extending further down the exhaust system. This design optimizes exhaust scavenging and contributes to improved horsepower and torque across a broader RPM range. Long tube headers are often chosen for high-performance applications where maximizing power gains is a priority.
Ceramic-Coated Headers
Ceramic-coated headers are headers with a ceramic coating applied to the exterior. This coating serves multiple purposes, including improving heat insulation, reducing underhood temperatures, and providing corrosion resistance. Ceramic-coated headers are an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking both performance gains and enhanced durability.
Tuned Headers
Tuned headers are designed with equal-length tubes to optimize exhaust pulses, promoting efficient scavenging and improving engine performance. This category aims to synchronize exhaust pulses from different cylinders, reducing back pressure and enhancing overall efficiency. Tuned headers are often chosen for applications where achieving a specific power band or maximizing performance is a priority.

Common Headers Questions

What performance gains can I expect from installing aftermarket headers?

The performance gains from aftermarket headers can vary depending on factors such as the specific type of headers, the vehicle's engine, and other modifications. Generally, enthusiasts can expect increased horsepower and torque, especially in the mid to high RPM range. Long tube headers often provide more significant gains compared to short tube headers. However, the exact improvements will depend on the overall setup of the vehicle and the quality of the aftermarket headers.
Are ceramic-coated headers worth the investment, and what benefits do they offer?

Ceramic-coated headers are worth considering for several reasons. The ceramic coating helps with heat insulation, reducing underhood temperatures and preventing heat-related damage to surrounding components. Additionally, the coating provides corrosion resistance, enhancing the durability of the headers. While they may have a higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits in terms of performance, durability, and engine bay temperature management make ceramic-coated headers a valuable investment for enthusiasts.
Will aftermarket headers make my vehicle significantly louder?

Upgrading to aftermarket headers can influence the exhaust note of your vehicle, potentially making it louder and more aggressive. The extent of the change depends on factors such as the type of headers, the overall exhaust system setup, and the design of the aftermarket headers. Some enthusiasts appreciate the enhanced sound, while others may consider adding additional components, such as resonators, to fine-tune the exhaust note and balance the desired sound profile.
Do I need to retune my vehicle's engine after installing aftermarket headers?

In many cases, it's recommended to perform an engine tune after installing aftermarket headers. The improved exhaust flow can impact air-fuel ratios and other engine parameters. Re-tuning the engine's electronic control unit (ECU) helps optimize performance gains, ensuring that the vehicle runs efficiently and effectively with the new headers. Our professional tuners can tailor the ECU to the specific modifications made, maximizing the benefits of the header upgrade.