How To Choose Exhaust Headers

How do you choose exhaust headers?

1. Understand how exhaust headers work
2. Determine the diameter size of the primaries
3. Consider the length of the headers
4. Check the material of the header
5. Don’t forget the collector

Many people use the terms exhaust manifold and exhaust headers interchangeably, but they have their differences. For instance, they serve the same purpose, but manifolds are more commonly found on regular vehicles. On the other hand, exhaust headers are used on high-performance vehicles. Other than that, an exhaust header is an aftermarket automotive part. They’re used as an upgrade to give your vehicle more power. If you want to know how to choose exhaust headers, keep on reading.

Understand How Exhaust Headers Work

Exhaust headers are just like exhaust manifolds because their main role is to transport gases from the engine to the exhaust system. But headers have the advantage of creating less exhaust backpressure, which is why many riders prefer them. 

Exhaust headers are commonly found on race cars and other custom applications. They can provide power gain for high-performance engines. Make sure that you do your homework first before installing headers on your car. A professional can help you properly make use of this component.

Determine The Diameter Size Of The Primaries 

The primaries are the pipes that connect directly to the exhaust ports. You need to consider a number of factors when choosing the diameter of the primaries — such as engine size, horsepower, and also how you plan to use your vehicle.

A smaller diameter will allow less volume of gases to flow, but can also help increase the flow velocity of the gas. That’s why going big is not always the best option. 

Consider The Length Of The Headers

Exhaust headers come in different dimensions, so you need to make a choice on what best fits your vehicle. For instance, there are full-length, mid-length, and shorty designs.

• Full-Length Headers

Full-length headers are the most common. They consist of long primaries that converge into one collector. This header can offer the best performance compared to mid-length and shorty. 

• Mid-Length headers

Mid-length headers have longer primaries than a stock exhaust manifold, so they can assist in improving torque and power. The primaries are not as long as the full-length ones, so they’re suitable if you’re concerned with ground clearance.

• Shorty

The shorty is often used for lowered vehicles and crowded engine compartments because of its size. A shorty has four short primaries connected into one short collector pipe. Although not as capable of producing low and mid-range power such as full-length headers, they’re a step up from stock exhaust manifolds.

Check The Material Of The Header

The material of the header plays an important factor in the durability and longevity of the component. Exhaust headers are available in a variety of materials, such as mild steel, coated mild steel, and stainless.

Mild steel exhaust headers are the most affordable, but require maintenance since you need to redo the header paint before deterioration. Stainless steel is more expensive, but the material will not rust and will last a very long time. 

There are also coated headers, which usually use ceramic coatings. The coating will help hold the heat in the component while also reducing the need for maintenance. Other than that, you can also choose whether you like a natural or painted finish. But typically, these don’t affect the performance and longevity of the exhaust header.

Don’t Forget The Collector

The collector brings the primaries into one tube. But just like the primaries, the diameter, and the length will make a difference. The collector needs to be large enough to accommodate the amount of exhaust flowing through it. But remember that larger primaries will also require a larger collector. 

There are two main types of collector design — the 4-1 and Tri-Y. The 4-1 style consists of four primary tubes connected to one collector. On the other hand, the Tri-Y style has three layers. The four primaries merge into the two secondary tubes. Then, the secondary tubes are merged into one collector. This is why it is also known as the 4-2-1. Tri-Y headers produce better low-end torque than 4-1 headers.

Key Takeaway

Knowing how to choose an exhaust header is beneficial if you want to upgrade the performance of your vehicle. Consider the diameter size and length of the primaries, the material used, and the collector too. If you need additional help understanding what will fit your car, you can contact a professional mechanic.

If you’re interested in high-quality automotive parts, you can give us a call here at Roberts! From the exhaust system, radiators, leaf springs, metal stamped parts, and more — we can help you find the component that your vehicle needs. Sine 1992, we are one of the biggest manufacturers in the industry, so you can trust us when it comes to quality, fair pricing, and on-time delivery.