Debating BBK headers....advice?

[Shadow Stang]

Hey guys (and gals). I'm debating on throwing some BBK shorty headers on the Stang and I was wondering if anyone else had already done that and whether or not you're happy with them. What kind of difference did you see? And for those who haven't done it, what kind of difference do you think I would see/hear? Also, will there be any major issues with installation because I have dual exhaust? Just looking for some feedback basically on whether or not it's worth it to get it done. All advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[68torinogt]

i bought some about 4 months ago ceramic coated i like them alot the look great and function awsome

 

[TMX]

If you get them ceramic coated is when you see the biggest differences. Normal headers will show better flowing up top with some down low, since it's just a tad bit bigger than the stock shorties the V6 comes with, and down low the stockers flow good enough. But with ceramic coating, it keeps the heat inside, prevents rust, and keeps the exhaust gasses moving quickly for gains across the power band. Sound wise, probably a small change in sound. The "tone" of the exhaust will change compared to stock, but not by much, and it won't be any louder.

 

[Shadow Stang]

Well I don't think I'm going to be able to do them after all. I can swing the $300 for the headers, no problem.....but the best I've been able to get on install is $650, which is just insane. And that's coming from the shop that did my exhaust setup and has done exhaust work for me on 6 vehicles in the past. Apparently, header swaps on V6 Mustangs of this body style are extremely difficult. Am I getting fed a bunch of junk...or is it really that hard? They estimated they'd need me to leave the car there from open to close but they could have it done in a day. I don't have a jack or anything like that so doing it myself might be hard.

Thanks by the way for the responses. Do you guys think it's worth that kind of investment? I was looking to do the chrome headers, but since ceramic is apparently the way to go, then that's what I'd be looking at. But man, that's a lot of cash for 15 horses.....maybe I should look into underdrive pulleys first?

Open to suggestions.

 

[Adverse2Change]

UDPs will run you about $220 (installed), for a minimal gain in hp... so if you can save for the headers, I'd go that route and keep asking around for a better install price.

 

[TMX]

$650 for install!!! What part of Houston you live? I aint got a clue how long it would take me since I aint got lifts, but it don't look that hard lol. And chrome headers are never a good idea, rust out before you know it, and the heat up badly. Ceremics will last ya longer and they are more efficient. Personally, I'm going UDP before headers.

 

[JSA96]

Are the BBK's long tube headers? The MAC long tube headers took me alone about 10 hrs to install with the X-pipe. This was on the garage floor fighting them and trying to remove the exhaust system that was there. Just barely had enough room to move things around under the car without a lift.

 

[Shadow Stang]

Okay, I guess I'll just have to save up some more money. The ceramic headers run $389 which isn't really an issue, but $650 is still my best install price. Apparently they have to lift the engine out in order to properly install them..not sure on the specifics. These headers are BBK shorty headers...I didn't see an option for long tube. So with the price of the part and install, I'm running about the same price as my new rims and tires would run me....ah debates, debates...lol. At any rate, I'm a few weeks out if I decide to do either one. Wishful thinking never hurt anyone, right?
Thanks for the advice everyone. I'll update everyone when something happens.

 

[97sally6]

if they told you that the engine needs lifted, then you are being lied to.

http://forums.stangnet.com/showthread.php?t=621984&highlight=headers

his install was around 4.5 hours, and the engine didnt need to be lifted, and that was for long tube headers. whatever you decide, good luck.