I will be installing new Mac headers and would like to know if i should change the 0's during the install or wait till they are in the car for a while. I see where new headers can foul the 0's while they burn off from being new. I bought 2 AC Delco for over 100 together and would hate to ruin them if all i have to do is wait a few 1000 miles and then do it. Also what would be good to do or inspect while the exhaust is off? I figure the compression test would be super easy.

 

One more question. I have the choice to have them with the ceramic coating. Is this worth the 100+ extra? Will the powers gains make much of a difference?

 

if they are not coated, then the o2's are probably safe. unless you want to do the job again in a few years, i would advise getting them coated

 

What happens to them that in 2 years or so they would need to be replaced? If i go with coated ones what is the procedure for the 02's so i don't ruins a good set?

 

Alot of people will just buy a new set and drive around with the freshly installed headers for a week or so. Then they will swap in the new sensors.

 

the coating keeps engine bay temps down ALOT and also prevents melting things.

and noncoated will rust like crazy quickly

YES the coating is worth it

 

What about the high temp tape wrap i have seen around?

 

I wouldn't use it. Stick with the coating. Some header manufacturers will void their warranties if the wrap is used, not to mention some people have burned their cars to the ground from the wrap getting oil soaked and catching fire.

 

Here is what the Mac's say in the description "HTS is a heat tempered silicon sealent used on headers, with a dura black finish on y pipe for double protection. High grade aluminized steel is used for y pipe" I cannot find a Mac with the ceramic coating. Is this stuff comparable or what? Lm performance has them on there web site. Here is the link. http://www.lmperformance.com/7637/2.html