What Are Headers?
Headers are aftermarket exhaust components designed to replace the factory exhaust manifolds. They improve exhaust flow, reduce backpressure, and enhance engine performance. Headers are available in different designs, including shorty, mid-length, and long tube headers.
Why Should You Upgrade to Headers?
- Increased Horsepower and Torque: Headers improve exhaust flow, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently and produce more power.
- Improved Throttle Response: Reduced backpressure results in quicker throttle response and better acceleration.
- Enhanced Engine Sound: Headers can provide a more aggressive exhaust note.
- Performance Gains: Ideal for vehicles with other performance modifications, such as intake and exhaust upgrades.
Types of Headers
1. Shorty Headers
What They Are: Compact headers that bolt directly to the factory or aftermarket catalytic converters. Why You Should Use Them: Easy to install and maintain emissions compliance. How They Work: Shorty headers have shorter primary tubes, improving exhaust flow over factory manifolds.
Pros:
- Easy Installation: Bolt-on replacement for factory manifolds.
- Emissions Compliance: Maintains compatibility with factory catalytic converters.
- Improved Performance: Provides better exhaust flow and power gains compared to stock manifolds.
Cons:
- Limited Gains: Not as effective as long tube headers for maximum performance.
- Moderate Sound Improvement: Less impact on exhaust sound compared to long tube headers.
Popular Brands:
- BBK: Known for high-quality shorty headers. BBK at JM Auto Racing
- JBA: Provides performance-oriented shorty headers. JBA at JM Auto Racing
2. Mid-Length Headers
What They Are: Headers with intermediate-length primary tubes, providing a balance between shorty and long tube headers. Why You Should Use Them: Offers a compromise between ease of installation and performance gains. How They Work: Mid-length headers improve exhaust scavenging and flow, providing better performance than shorty headers.
Pros:
- Performance Improvement: Better power gains compared to shorty headers.
- Moderate Installation: Easier to install than long tube headers.
- Sound Enhancement: Provides a more aggressive exhaust note.
Cons:
- Moderate Gains: Not as effective as long tube headers for maximum performance.
- Compatibility Issues: May require additional modifications to fit.
Popular Brands:
- Kooks: Known for high-performance mid-length headers. Kooks at JM Auto Racing
- American Racing Headers: Provides durable and effective mid-length headers. American Racing Headers at JM Auto Racing
3. Long Tube Headers
What They Are: Headers with long primary tubes that extend to the vehicle’s mid-pipe or catalytic converter. Why You Should Use Them: Provide maximum performance gains and exhaust flow. How They Work: Long tube headers improve exhaust scavenging and reduce backpressure, resulting in significant power gains.
Pros:
- Maximum Performance: Provides the best power gains and exhaust flow.
- Enhanced Sound: Delivers a deep, aggressive exhaust note.
- Improved Throttle Response: Reduces backpressure for quicker throttle response.
Cons:
- Complex Installation: Requires more time and effort to install.
- Emissions Compliance: May not be legal in all areas due to emissions regulations.
Popular Brands:
- Kooks: Known for high-performance long tube headers. Kooks at JM Auto Racing
- Stainless Works: Provides durable and effective long tube headers. Stainless Works at JM Auto Racing
Conclusion
Upgrading to headers can significantly improve your vehicle’s performance by enhancing exhaust flow and reducing backpressure. Shorty headers offer ease of installation and emissions compliance, while mid-length headers provide a balance between performance and ease of installation. Long tube headers deliver maximum power gains and an aggressive exhaust note but require more effort to install. With various high-quality brands available, there’s a header solution for every performance need and application.