Header install...
Header install... How many of you have installed your own headers?? Give me some details on the time, difficulty etc. I have heard that it isn't even worth it to try it yourself.
i did my own. took me a weekend to do it because i ran out of sunlight and some minor problems. getting the front end up high enough will make it easier when the lt's are ready to go in. investing in a 10mm ratchet wrench is also a good idea. it makes getting the back header bolts easy.
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 6,080
Likes: 17
From: So.Cal.
Lift the car high > 24".
Remove spark plugs.
Spray penetrating oil on cat bolts and header bolts.
Do not use air tools to remove header bolts.
Be patient when turning/lifting headers into car.
Use GM header gasket.
Use new header bolts.
Take your time, take breaks.
Move new Y-pipe around so it doesn't hit floor, tunnel, brace.
Remove the heat shields and leave them off.
Remove AIR/EGR plumbing and leave it off.
Pay attention to O2 wiring, don't let any wires touch headers.
Remove spark plugs.
Spray penetrating oil on cat bolts and header bolts.
Do not use air tools to remove header bolts.
Be patient when turning/lifting headers into car.
Use GM header gasket.
Use new header bolts.
Take your time, take breaks.
Move new Y-pipe around so it doesn't hit floor, tunnel, brace.
Remove the heat shields and leave them off.
Remove AIR/EGR plumbing and leave it off.
Pay attention to O2 wiring, don't let any wires touch headers.
its not hard at all just takes time, getting the old **** off is the hardest part. the easiest thing to do to get the old stuff off is to cut the y pipe off with a sawzaw, and also an extra set of hands to hold up the new headers with you thread the bolts helps alot.
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I used a lift and air tools so it was pretty easy. I only had a bit of trouble getting the driver side in. I beat the floor board in a little and it slid right in. Take the passenger side coils off and it will be much easier.
Do yourself a favor and do the install yourself. It'll save you money and you will get a feeling of accomplishment when it's all said and done! I just did mine like 2 months ago and it wasn't really as bad as I thought it would be. It ended up taking me a total of close to 6 hours, not including breaks. As mentioned before, just make sure that you get the car up high off the ground. After that just take your time. If it takes you a little longer don't worry about it, nobody is going to laugh at you!
BTW
10mm ratchet wrench is a lifesaver and totally worth the cash if you don't have one.
BTW
10mm ratchet wrench is a lifesaver and totally worth the cash if you don't have one. 
