How difficult is it to install a header?

[Redpest850]

Well, i'm going to replacing my WHOLE exhaust from header, to cat, to cat-back. I just curious how hard is it to install the header. I plan to get a header that everyone buys on ebay, ssautochrome, i think the seller name was. Do i have to worry about overtightening the header? Do i have to worry about the header warping? Any info about installation tips, or headers in general would be helpful.THANKS

 

[Ghost1984]

i dont have a 2nd gen eclipse but i did install one on my 1st gen and it had its bad spots but if your a novice mechanic then you should be able to do it, the header is quite simple just gotta have the right tools, spray some wd40 on the header bolts to keep from breaking them....and just pull it off, but not everytime is it gonna just bolt right up, you might have to do some fabricating to get it to slide on there, then just use a good quality gasket and you should be set.

 

[andymoraitis]

Originally posted by Redpest850
Well, i'm going to replacing my WHOLE exhaust from header, to cat, to cat-back. I just curious how hard is it to install the header. I plan to get a header that everyone buys on ebay, ssautochrome, i think the seller name was. Do i have to worry about overtightening the header? Do i have to worry about the header warping? Any info about installation tips, or headers in general would be helpful.THANKS

First of all, stay away from that piece of flaming trash and save your pennies for a name brand header. Mine has leaked repeatedly and your shop will have to weld your header to the downpipe if the connection between the two isn't perfect. On mine the smog sensor threads were too small so that had to be welded on as well.

If you're not sure about how to install it and torque specs, let a professional do everything. Unless you have some decent tools, getting the header bolts off will be a pain as will unbolting everything.

Just my two cents and I hope it helps.

 

[Eclipse96Ryder]

yo dont listen to that guy

the header is awesome. I have it on my 2gnt and its worked wonderfully. I know a lot of other people on this site that have put that header on and been satisfied...its really nice and fit PERFECTLY! go ahead and get, the install is really easy.

 

[andymoraitis]

Whatever bro. Since you know so much about engineering and proper fabrication I defer to your superior skills and know how...

People are right. This site is a flippin joke.

Later

 

[Redpest850]

Thanks for the info. For the ssautochrome header, does it come with a new gasket and new bolts for the engine? and how does the downpipe connect to the header, extra bolts? Another thing, How would i get the rusted bolts off of the engine? Also, when i'm bolting up the header, do i need a torque wrench to bolt it on there? or should i just make it tight, and feel around the header if there is any leaks and tighten more where i feel air? one more thing, after time, would i have to worry about the header warping? or is there a slim to none chance of the header warping?Thanks

 

[Topple]

Use WD40, if they are rusted.... If that doesn't work, might need to get something at the auto store.
I beilieve you should torque the header to the engine at 17ft. lbs. The header to the front exhaust pipe is around 17ft lbs. also... I think the nut's are 30 something ft. lbs.
Those should be all the bolts, and nuts...

 

[Redpest850]

But can anyone tell me if i have to worry about the header warping? That's another one of my concerns with the header. I don't want to have to keep replacing headers unless i have to. Thanks.

 

[Eclipse96Ryder]

Originally posted by Redpest850
Thanks for the info. For the ssautochrome header, does it come with a new gasket and new bolts for the engine? and how does the downpipe connect to the header, extra bolts? Another thing, How would i get the rusted bolts off of the engine? Also, when i'm bolting up the header, do i need a torque wrench to bolt it on there? or should i just make it tight, and feel around the header if there is any leaks and tighten more where i feel air? one more thing, after time, would i have to worry about the header warping? or is there a slim to none chance of the header warping?Thanks

it does come with new gaskets and bolts. the bolts on my car just came off i didnt spray ne thing on them. i didnt use a torque wrench and had no leaks when i was done so its not necessary. and my header has not warped at all. i dont think u will need to worry about that either.

 

[hondamunchergsx]

damn i just put on a replacement header today it wasnt all that fun
man i was so pissed off when i was done ..

heres what not to do the bolts on the j-pipe are a bi*** to get off so jack the car

also spray everything with wd 40 its a great idea belive me because if you apply to much pressure you will over tourque and twist the head of the center bolt and you will be mad

also you have to drop the exhaust to put the header back on ...it makes life easy


ok oh yea dont get mad ...dont throuw things ....dont over tighten ...and always use protection [ wd40 ] always oh yea dont buy those headers its worth saving for something better .....oh and one more thing that center bolt in the front of the header conecting the j-pipe to header i need that bolt so let me know


thanks man

heed my warnings

ok later

viva la

 

[soulreclipse]

is there a write up or anything..cuz i got a hotshot 4-1 header from my friend and he just handed it down to me when he turboed his car and i have no instructions.. i mean i can do it but i wanna see how hard it is so i can judge how long it'll take

 

[andymoraitis]

Originally posted by soulreclipse
is there a write up or anything..cuz i got a hotshot 4-1 header from my friend and he just handed it down to me when he turboed his car and i have no instructions.. i mean i can do it but i wanna see how hard it is so i can judge how long it'll take

For the uninitiated it should probably take about two hours or a bit less. A good exhaust house can do the job in about 40 minutes or so.

Things to watch out for not mentioned above.

1. Have a really good set of sockets with swivel heads to get off the manifold bolt near the thermostat.

2. If you don't have jackstands, don't bother. The downpipe to cat needs to be done from underneath.

3. Make sure your smog sensor hooks up to the smog inlet on the header. If not, it needs to be welded on (like mine). Take it off from the inlet hose and screw it on. The hose can be clamped back on when the header's in.

4. Don't forget to hook up both O2 sensors in the correct location: one on the header and one downstream of the cat (if the cat's being changed as well).

That should do it and good luck!

 

[97eclipsedGS]

this is about as plug and play as it gets.

1) spray all bolts with a good cutting oil, preferably not wd40, as it is more of a lubricant
2) remove bolts
3) put new header on w/ appropriate new gasket
4) torque bolts to appropriate pressure, making sure to use antisieze on the bolts
5) drive and enjoy.

to those of you that are intimidated by a header install, dont even think about cams, bottom end, or a turbokit.....

good luck

 

[ninjai_ruken]

I never had a single problem installing my header my GS or the new turbo manifold on my GST, As long as you pace your self and take the time to prepare for your task you should be good.

 

[SnoopySLR]

Ok, I had the biggest nightmare taking my manifold off for my header. Here are some steps that will help

1. Make sure you have a can of PB Blaster, not WD40. PB Blaster is 100x more penatrating.

2. If you don't have a MAP Gas torch, get one. If you run into a frozen bolt, just take the MAP to it and it will come off. Propane just doesn't get hot enough. Also, don't spray any oils on a just heated part.

3. This is the big one. Make sure you only use 6 sided sockets. 12 sided sockets will strip. If you strip one, your screwed.

If your careful and patient, you won't have any trouble. Good luck