Im thinking of getting some new headers as my next mod to my car, but I don't know what the difference is between shorties and long tubes. Is it just that actual lenght of them? because then it seems that if one fit, the other would not be the right size to line up with my dual cats. Also if you could give me an estimate on how much it would cost to have a mechanic install them i would appreciate it.
Thanks
Billy

 

The difference is in the length of the primaries and in the diameter of them.

LTs are better for power, but require more work to install, and require more exhaust work to hook up the rest of the cat back. Also these are usually not emissions legal.

Shorty/mid-lengths require a little less install work but don't offer as much power increase. Most are made to hook up all factory pieces and come with a y-pipe to retain the stock catback, and emissions

It depends on what you want LTs will be more and offer more power, and if emission legality is what you want these usually aren't for you.

I would think that I'd do LTs if I had it to do over again.

 

Thanks, that helps a lot but what about when some say they are 1 3/4 inch and 1 5/8 inch, how do i which i have, its only 1/8 inch difference. I will probably go with the shorties, so if anybody else has an estimate of installation prices that would be great.

 

Search

 

The LTs will be the 1 3/4, while the Sorties will be 1 5/8.

I wouldn't pay anyone to install headers, it isn't that hard and it will be expensive for you to have it done at shop time rates.

 

I would say it should take between 2 and 4 hours to install depending on the mechanics esperience. But there prolly gona flag you for 4 anyways so depending on the shop rate you do the math. Your prolly looking at $200-$300 for the install.

Long tubes make the best overall power. But there Really only necessary if you wana drag race. The ground clearance goes to crap with them. For street and road race use i would suggest shorties. The make power across a wider band. And on a fairly stock motor you don't need to put 1 3/4" headers. 1 5/8" is gona be plenty for ya.

Good luck Mike

 

With longtubes, you will have to remove the existing cat. Longtubes won't pass visual smog inspection because the original cats are removed which isn't allowed. However, if you know someone or a shop that'll hook you up go for it. Longtubes usually provide more torque and hp when compared to shorties.

I wish I bought longtubes originally, but now I'll just have to save up again for some.

 

Ok, thanks a lot guys, but this brings me to another query, will i have to lift the engine out of the car to install the slp shorties, or can i just unbolt mine and slide them out and put in the new ones?

 

I have hooker shorties and i put them in with the motor in place.
The driver side went in throught the top. and the passenger side went in through the bottom after removing the starter. Careful running your plug wires. You'll prolly burn a couple up if your not careful. And you can kiss that little plastic shield on the steering shaft goodbye.

Good luck Mike