Headers are a great way to get more horsepower and torque. However, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing a header sizing.
For instance, long tube headers require a custom tune and will usually necessitate the relocation or removal of your factory catalytic converter. This is a big no-no in most states as it makes your car illegal to drive.
- Sound
Headers are the first part of your bolt-on exhaust system that connects to your engine. They are also known as exhaust manifolds, or headers and they move exhaust from the engine into the mufflers.
A header upgrade will improve your vehicle’s performance by reducing back pressure and exhaust gas temperatures. They can also improve scavenging by increasing the velocity of the exhaust pulses entering each cylinder.
Long tube headers are the more popular choice for the long tube headers for 5.7 hemi because they offer better high-rpm performance and power gains. However, this means that they may require a custom tune and can cause damage to your engine if not properly tuned. They also require relocating or removing the catalytic converter, which makes them unusable in some states.
Shorty headers (also known as short-runners) are best for low to mid range power. They do a great job of emptying the cylinders and are perfect for engines that spend most of their time in this rpm range.
- Performance
Long tube headers are a must for anyone looking to maximize performance on their Mustang. They offer significant gains in the mid to high rpm range, and are ideal for track cars and other applications that spend most of their time above the redline.
They work by generating reverse negative pressure waves to ram more mixture into the cylinder during overlap. However, it takes a good cam and high compression to fully take advantage of this technology.
Shorty Headers
Unlike long tubes, shorties are welded together rather than cast. They’re also easier to install, and can be used with factory catalytic converters (which makes them 50-state legal). Depending on the design, shorties can deliver low to mid rpm power comparable to a set of long tubes. However, they’re not suited for use with aftermarket exhaust systems, and will often trigger a check engine light if not properly tuned. They also aren’t compatible with turbochargers.
- Installation
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to make more power on your stock 5.7 Hemi then Shorty Headers are the way to go. This style of headers will increase your torque and allow you to pull harder through the entire powerband, especially in the upper RPM range. They are also more affordable than Long Tube Headers and are much easier to install.
Unlike Long Tube Headers, Shorty Headers are shorter in primary diameter and do not require you to remove the cats. This allows for the piping to be run directly into your exhaust system. However, this set up can cause a check engine light on most modern applications and will require a custom tune.
Although shorty headers do not make as much peak power as long tubes they will still make more power over a catless h/x pipe because of the increase in area under the curve. They will also create more torque throughout the powerband and will give your vehicle a meaner, throatier sound that is sure to make it hard for you to resist putting the petal to the metal.
- Cost
Depending on the style and features, long tube headers can run upward of $500. Long tube headers also require some major work to install, including removing the front K-Member and possibly dropping the front suspension of your Mustang.
Shorty headers are less expensive than long tube headers and are more easily installed. They also connect directly to the stock exhaust system, which can help reduce turbo lag. Additionally, shorty headers can help reduce your Mustang’s exhaust backpressure.
Shorty headers can provide a significant power boost, especially in the lower to mid range of the engine’s rpm band. They are a great option for enthusiasts looking to get more performance out of their car without spending too much money or having to spend time on complicated installations. However, if you are going to install a set of shorty headers it is a good idea to consider a high-flow cat or even a full-cat converter to maximize the horsepower and torque gains.
