Headers - Equal length, un-equal, short, full length, what's the difference?

lz_mystic_cobra · 08-07-2002

I would like to get some headers for my '96 cobra. I'm not sure which type I should get though (I'm kinda new to this). I saw some full length headers from Hooker that looked pretty good, or should I go with shorter ones, equal or unequal? I'm not sure what the difference is in these types of headers. I have a bassani O/R X-Pipe on right now, and my guess is I'll probably have to get it modified to fit the headers. Or are there some types of headers I can get that will be a direct fit. Also, are they pretty easy to put in? I've heard people say that it is real cramped in there for my model of car, but it can be done without too much pain. Should I just take it somewhere, and what kind of hp should I gain? My other mods are listed below, is headers my next logical step for N/A power? Thanks

Vortex · 08-07-2002

The off road pipe will bolt up fine to shorty headers.. long tube headers give the most HP but are harder to install and require a short x pipe. equal length shorties all the tubes are the same length. looks like a tangled mess.. but you get just a little more hp out of them then unequal.. they just go towards the back.. un equals are supposed to be easier to install.. all can be done in a day if little probs dont arise. and you should get 10-15 HP depending on which you go with.
headers are a good step for sound and power.. I dont see gears in your list.. those will help you out mucho mucho as well...

lz_mystic_cobra · 08-09-2002

Hey preciate it. Yeah, I just got some 3.73's... real nice. I think I'll try for the long tubers, but I'll have to wait a while...

Vortex · 08-09-2002

the only thing with long tubes would be dropping the tranny if you ahve to change a clutch.. or another one would be undercarriage getting hot.. i recommend header wrap em to keep from feeling warm.

Amustang42 · 08-09-2002

Why not go with Bassani headers since you already have their x-pipe?