American Racing Install

[flyin6]

I finally got around to installing the excellent American Racing long tube headers onto my 2010 Escalade EXT. The installation took two days where I spent about 4-5 hours each day on the project and worked at a slower more methodical pace. It could easily be done in one long day with a lift and perhaps a friend helping. I ran into a delay when one of the exhaust manifold to Y-pipe nuts refused to loosen, requiring me to saw the Y-pipe up into sections for removal. I was surprised by that since my truck only had 800 miles on the odometer when I did the install!

 

I would say the job ranges from easy to moderately difficult depending on your mechanical prowess, tools, and work area.

Here's the AR Headers and Y-Pipe all shiney and new!

[flyin6]

Exhaust manifold removed, and factory Y-Pipe cut up and awaiting transport to the dump!

[flyin6]

...Showing difference in Y-Pipe diameters

[flyin6]

And the header outlet

[flyin6]

Left tube installed minus spark plugs

[flyin6]

Comparison of new header to old manifold...Any questions??

[flyin6]

From below, showing left header and how well it fits the chassis

[flyin6]

Y-Pipe is being fitted. It, too, was well designed and fit everything well

[flyin6]

Showing connection to factory cat-back

[flyin6]

Factory exhaust bolted up to the AR header and Y-Pipe

[flyin6]

View from top showing everything hooked back up and ready to start

 

Prior to starting I reflashed the computer with a custom tune by Lewis over at Diablo which I did through the Diablo Trinity module which now lives in the cab where it constantly monitors engine activities.

 

Initial driving impression is this change of the headers and tune is very noticable. It almost feels like it is breaking traction acclerating from a standing start. Keep in mind the Escalade is AWD, so two aft wheels and at least one front one is getting that power. This truck is getting fast!

Next I will drive it some to allow the computer to assimilate the changes then pull a log for further tuning. If it gets any better than this I am going to be a happy camper. Well at least until the upcomng cam change and supercharger addition...

[flyin6]

One final comment is that the new AR headers weighed 16.4 pounds less than the factory system they replaced. Along with the factory running boards I also removed while under the truck which were 44 pounds total, I shaved a sweet 60 pounds off the hefty Esky.

Next is the spare tire and hardware!

[tx tahoe z71]

Thanks for the write-up and pics! You can't do much better than ARH! I have a set of LPP's that have been sitting in the garage waiting to be installed for 5 months If the seat-of-the-pants difference is that much, I might have to carve out a day or two soon and get these on!

 

Post up with your impression after you get the tune dialed in for them.

[flyin6]

Thanks for the write-up and pics! You can't do much better than ARH! I have a set of LPP's that have been sitting in the garage waiting to be installed for 5 months If the seat-of-the-pants difference is that much, I might have to carve out a day or two soon and get these on!

 

Post up with your impression after you get the tune dialed in for them.

 

Absolutely, will be happy to do so!

[savage99ss]

Very nice write up with great detail. I have to ask why the headers on an Escalade??? I guess I ask this, bc my headers are so loud on my camaro.