I'm currently running Edelbrock shortie headers with an SLP 3'' Y-Pipe, and have to put the stock mani's back on to do the dealer warranty cat replacement... So I'm wondering how much HP I'll pick up if I throw on a set of Pacesetters and TSP catted Y instead of putting the shorties back on. Also, would I need a re-tune if I go to long tubes?

 

Are you planning on using the factory cat for something. I wouldn't want to switch out headers to exh. manifolds just to get new cats or whatever they do.
I am sure you have a reason though. I would say yes switching to LT's would be a nice gain and worth it.

 

Yes, I need the factory cats to pass smog in CA. I'll get the new ones, and just store them for smog every two years.

 

After reading some of the posts over 1 3/4 vs 1 7/8 headers, Id deff go with 1 7/8 if I were you.

 

Dont get pacesetters. quality is crap. you get what you pay for. Go long tubes for sure. most torque/ hp gains through out the power band. also sounds waaaay better.

 

Yes.
Tsp 1 7/8

 

Thanks guys. So whats a good step up from the Pacesetters? I don't want to spend too much more. I've looked at Kooks, but have heard about quality issues with TSP's LTs.

 

def more gains with LTs. but headers are headers. the pacesetters are not even close to bad imo.

 

There are no quality issues with the TSP 1 7/8" I have seen and they install perfectly on both cars I have experience with.

That would be my number 1 choice, if not I would just as soon get the pacesetters or ebay headers and pocket the cash.

 

There's a $200 difference between the Pacesetters and TSP's, is the HP difference worth it?

 

I'm about to do install my pacesetter as soon as I change my plugs and finish doing my motor mounts so hopefully tonight!!!

 

quality is what your paying for

 

Headers are not headers.
Imo, yes.

I would do those with a nice merge like flowmaster. Will sound better and flow amazing, you will pick up nice gains everywhere.

 

my pacesetter's work great and fit great but the coating does not last on a DD, mine's already flaking and rusting underneath. i got some high temp header paint from vht i believe sanded and painted what i could get to on the car and keep on gettin it and they still look good up top. Now if anything happens to these i'll put stainless back on it

 

The ceramic coating flaking off?

 

If ground clearance and cost is a issue then take a look at the (ceramic coated) BBK LT's w/ORY-pipe you can get them for $425 shipped.
PM sent.

 

started rustin underneath the coating where there 02 bungs were welded and at the collectors, bubbled and then came off.

 

Well...after a ton of reading, I'm more confused than I was before. I guess what it boils down to is getting something that installs the easiest because I have to pull them out every two years for smog...

 

The BBK LT's from what i've read install easily(fit good). summitracing has free shipping on them right now. Like $369 chrome or an extra $100 for the ceramic coating.

 

1-7/8 stainless