Anyone install headers on their 5.3?

Matt99Z71 · August 24, 2006

I've been thinking about installing headers to get some more power. Usually I always do long tubes to make it worth it. I threw a set of $80 long tubes on my old 86 305 lifted Chevy 4x4 and holy crap did it make a difference. Just wondering if anyones done it, how hard the long tubes are to get in, how you dealt with the cats in the primaries, and power results. I already have an idea what the power results should be. Also, whats the best brand to use? Thanks

05Quadrasteer · August 24, 2006

I put the Dynatech Supermaxx headers with cats on my truck. The only real problem I had was on the drivers side. But once I realized that all I needed to do was drop out the front drive shaft then I could get the headers up and in. Also keeping the drive shaft down out of the way ensured I could reach the back bolts on that side as well.

I don't have any actual performance numbers as my truck has never been on a dyno before or after. Seat of the pants driving tells me it is better now.

Have a nice day.

Bill

Matt99Z71 · August 25, 2006

That it the setup that I like the most, with the cats and everything. Any idea what you gained? Maybe 20 horsepower? Probably revs alot quicker now I assume. I looked at the factory manifolds and they actually don't look super restrictive, except where all four collect into one. However, with my mileage creeping up, i'll need to do something about the cats anyway. Does the Dynatech setup use all four 02 sensors or just the front two?

mikystyle · August 25, 2006

Only thing i heard from other people is that sometimes on the 5.3s the manifold bolts snap off and have to be drilled out. Just something to think about.

05Quadrasteer · August 25, 2006

All 4 O2 sensors are used. I did run into a problem with the Rear O2 sensor on the passenger side burning up. Warrenty replaced it 3 times before they said no more due to the fact I had put the headers on the truck. During that time I was working with my tuner (Westers) to get it turned off. They were finally able to get it turned off so I no longer get the code on the O2 sensor.

Yes it does accelarate like crazy. Since the headers were the last part of my overall bolt on upgrades I do believe it was a combination of everything together that gives me the response I was looking for.

Shout if you have any further questions. Have a nice day.

Bill