Im looking to get headers for my 97 Z28 currently it has a CAI, I want to get the most power at the bottom RPM range. I use the car daily so Im not looking to build a full racer Im looking to build a clean quick street machine. Also I have heard that long tubes provide the most bottom end torque and HP. Also as far as hard how hard is to install headers on a LT1?

 

Installing headers on an LT1 is pretty challenging for someone who hasn't done it before. Plan on a full day with a friend's help.

If you can, go with long tubes (if emissions isn't a concern). They provide substantial gains over their short tube counterparts.

 

Long def better...

 

Not necessarily! One advantage of short (or mid-tube) on a 97 is that you can maintain your dual CAT's and O2's. And good mid-tubes loose very little in HP over long tubes. Ground clearance can also be an issue with long tubes and a lowered car.

 

Agree with SORR above. It really depends on your situation and emissions requirements. If not looking for track performance...shorties/mid can be a good upgrade.

 

So long pipes make more hp, which do you guys feel are easier to install? As far as emissions go I'm not worried I live in Wyoming. What do you guys think about buying some used headers? Is there anythin I should look out for?

 

Cant I get a PCM tune to override the 02 sensor and cats (Emissions)?

 

You need the front O2s for fuel trim. The rear O2s can be deleted or you can use O2 simms.

Long tubes, IMO, are easier to install.

 

I agree. A good shorty or mid tube will produce as much as a long tube.

 

The whole theory on primary length is that longer primaries boost torque at low RPM, shorter primaries boost torque higher RPM. What works best for you depends on what the purpose of the vehicle is. A street car benefits from the low end torque, a track car benefits from the high RPM torque.

Unfortunately, I've seen dyno results that both confirm and contradict the theory.

 

Ground clearance is slightly less with long tubes but if you have a lowered car you are probably used to watching where and how you drive.

As far as installation- it depends on brand. I had BBK mids before and they weren't any easier than my Pacestter Longs. Plug access is considerably better on the long tubes however.

 

I have had both before on the same car. I recommend longtubes. I put shortys on first and I didn't even notice a difference. After the long tubes there was a definite difference in seat-o-pants meter.

 

For more power in the bottom RPM range, go with a pair of long tubes. Just get yourself a set of 02 extensions and do the pcm tune. If you're on a budget Pacesetter makes a pretty good LT. Get rid of the egr while you're in there too

 

I got Mac Mids and they have good plug access, I guess the install is a little pita, but not too bad. I've had them for 13yrs and no complaints. One thing I do remember though don't use the gaskets they provide, get new stock metal gaskets & they wont ever leak.