Whats better, aftermarket headers or aftermarket/ported manifold?

[Dagda]

Just like the topic says, I've looked all over and can't really find a hp comparison between the two, or even relative flow. I have a 2g stock manifold in now, and I'm putting in my EVO III real soon so then would be the time to do it, as everything will be out and available. Thanks!

Ciaran

 

[96gstdsm]

The 2g manifold is plenty good for well over what the evo3 16g can produce. If anything port it or get an evo3 exhaust manifold. The tubular exhaust manifolds are good when running really high power, but tend to crack a lot more and also will raise the under the hood temps up considerably since you can not use your heat shield on them, unless of course you make a custom one.
For gain though, the ported 2g manifold will be more than enough for any 16g turbo.

 

[esoung]

only serious car modifiers with big turbos use tubular. the aren't for daily driven cars because it's probable they will crack. i'd say stick with ported 2g, turbo lag is not an issue for small turbo. spend money on more effect uses, i.e. cams, fmic, etc... that will make more of a difference.

 

[lillev23]

Well a tubular header will flow exhaust gases much better (assuming it is designed and built correctly) than any cast unequal length manifold. You might have prblems with coolant temps rising because a S.S. mani gives off alot of heat(which is one of the reasons whay people heat wrap, ceramic coat, and jet hot them). Make sure if you decide to get a tubular it is an equal length and has some type bracing on it going from the turbo flange to the header flange to help prevent cracking of the welds on the mani when it's hot.

 

[Dagda]

thanks! i'll probably just port out my 2g one when i take it out, and just keep using it. thanks for the help!

 

[Splitpi]

thanks! i'll probably just port out my 2g one when i take it out, and just keep using it. thanks for the help!

Good choice... use the cost savings for other go fast parts.

 

[TALONTRAX]

I ran a tubular header for a while, & really didn`t notice a performance gain, & it developed cracks. I put the stock 2G manifold back on after porting it, & finishing it in hi-temp silver, & it looks & runs great, & will be reliable also . . .