Sunday, November 23, 2014

Just How Much Horsepower Do Headers Add

Horsepower Gains are Proportional


No two engines or systems are correct the twin, so results Testament naturally vary. The habitual enactment is that you can expect from 5 to 20 percent capability benefit, on the contrary it is directly proportional to the engine and its output at the hour the headers are installed. Provided a performance exhaust is installed on 100-horsepower, four-cylinder engine, For example, the advance may lone be five to 10 horsepower. Installing a header operation on a 1969 febrile rod with a commodious block, on the other hand, may snare over 50. On top of the bent gains, it is perfect feasible that fuel economy Testament boost by reason of the engine Testament not acquire to donkeywork as oppressive to assemble horsepower and torque.


Brand and Type


The cost of headers can famously move the capacity gains achieved. Element materials and craftsmanship for the particular vehicle use Testament always produce better numbers than a Brand X header that doesn't fit right because it either was not designed correctly or has multiple vehicle applications. For this reason, it is important to purchase the best quality headers you can afford to ensure good quality and horsepower gains. Stock exhaust manifolds are normally very restrictive as far as flow goes, and headers open that path up so that the engine can breathe easier. However, going too big in tubing size, or the incorrect length, can actually result in the engine losing horsepower.


Headers vs. Complete System


While simply installing a good header or headers can definitely increase the power output of most engines, coupling them with a quality exhaust and muffler can further the gains. Adding a well-designed and effective set of headers that flow into a $16 muffler, For example, probably could be improved upon. Always wait at least 30 minutes for everything to cool down before digging in.



Some systems may require the use of the stock catalytic converter, so do some research on your make, model and year before making an expensive purchase. If installing the system yourself, be aware that some welding may be required. Never work on a hot exhaust system. Popular quality muffler brands include Flowmaster, Dynomax, Magnaflow and Borla, although several others are on the markets that do the job well.

Tips

Some headers or exhaust systems may not be legal in all states, so check your local laws and ordinances before installing any aftermarket components.