Here's what i've got. It's my 97 Z28 (you know, dual cats) and really right now, it's basically stock. I've got a Gale Banks cat-back and that's it. Next week my 218-224 cam will be installed (screw Daytona! I'm installing a cam on my spring break!!!) along with new springs, rockers, ect. So pretty much the headers that are really getting my attention on as follows:

1)FLP's
2)AS&M with RT dual-cat Ypipe
What is the diff between the 93-95 dual-cat setup and the 96-97 dualcat setup offered by Thunder Racing? 96-97 costs $160 more!
3)TPIS with dualcat y-pipe

Am i going to have to have certain emissions removed and programmed out of my computer with any of these? I assume they all will perform about the same so really my issues come down to quality, ease of install, and any extra things i should know about such as the above computer programming and emissions issues.
btw, i don't have to deal with emissions here but i AM going to run a dual cat y-pipe setup.

 

I'm running FLP's and they definitely make the power, but in my opinion lack quality. Mine have rust spots and I've had numerous problems with warped flanges. The only thing you'll need is O2 sims since there aren't any bung holes for the rear O2 sensors. I've passed emissions with my FLP's no problem.

 

I have decided to go with the AS&ms because they are close to lts performance wise and I may lower it in the future.

 

that's the one reason why AS&M's are on my list. I'm putting GM y2k vette wheels on the car soon. not sure if the ride height will look right with my SLP/Eibach's and Bilsteins so it's possible i may lower it...? (i'd rather not, i hope the wheels look good with the current suspension).
i've heard the TIPS have great ground clearance though.

 

I'd say go with the ASM's. The power they give/can support is among the best out there. The quailty is top notch too, I had no fitment problems.

 

Go Jet-Hot, they're cheaper and come with emmisions fittings or without. Plus they're coated. The coating has a warranty too.

 

by the time i get a dual cat y-pipe they will probably cost almost the same, wouldnt' they?

 

Toss the dual cat pipe idea, convert it to single cat style. AS&M are damn good headers, when you buy them make sure they have D ports, if not they arent AS&M.

-Dustin-

 

i can get the AS&Ms w/dual cat pipes and 2 flow better than one. looks like its between TPIS and AS&M. i always wanted some AS&Ms but from what i've read, it seems the TPIS LT's are the best choice...and actually a couple hundred cheaper than the AS&M setup i'm looking at.

anyone have any reason NOT to get the TPIS (other than cost)?

 

Have you ever thought about Mac Headers single cat style? I would go that route for easy installation and plug access. Also the design of the headers are a mid length design and you will not have any ground issues if you decide to lower your car. You can purchase them at Jet-Hot so they come coated when you order them. If you have any questions about the install or just have questions about the macs please feel free to e-mail me.

 

Its much less expensive with the single cat style, and as far as the dual cat flowing better...thats up for debate IMO. TPIS are great, but if you want AS&M just convert it to a single cat. Most 96-97 guys do that and it makes things alot cheaper, and I am not thinking your losing anything runing it all to one cat.

-Dustin-

 

I have FLPs and I think fit and finish are great. Installing them wasn't bad at all. The driver side is real easy and the passenger side is a bit of a pita. They installed from the bottom and they seem to make nice power. I will find out in a few week when I go to the track.