Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01'RT?

[jwwiii]

Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

I already have the Mopar 3" street exhaust (cat back) and I love the new sound. I have heard that there really is no benefit to changing headers because the 98' and newer have the different, lighter weight ones. Is this true?

I can see how a lower restriction catalyst system would help with improved flow, but are they emmissions legal? What is different about other headers rather than stock?

As always, I appreciate the info you folks post here. I think this is a really good question, and have heard there is not much to gain. What do you think?

Jim

 

[BWoodbury]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

Here is what I have heard:

Mopar "Street Headers" may flow a bit more, but their reason for existence is to save weight. All other headers exist to improve flow, how well each one does this is open to debate.

Lower restriction cats will also improve flow. If you are going to get headers I would definitely get them. They are pretty cheap, at least when compared to headers) and the should still allow you to pass emissions testing. I would make sure you get a guarantee on this before you buy.

Note: If you are getting headers and low restriction cats you should have the input side of your Mopar 3" system cut off and replaced as it is only 2 1/2 inches. Fix that and you would be 3" throughout. Faster and louder. Isn't that what it is all about?

 

[JonB]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

I agree 100% w/ Woodbury....and also note that not all hi-flow cats are created equal! generally, you get your money's worth.

ps.....OEM 1998-2001 shorty-tube headers do NOT flow even close to what a good after-market header will flow. Depending on header / exhaust system combos/choices, you could easily see an additional 30-40 HP in a 2000-01 car. (44-50hp in 96-99)

pps.....many say the improved tone and sound of headers is worth the $$, regardless of HP !

Choose the header that is right for your planned upgrades and driving venues.

E-me or call if I can help.......

 

[Ron]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

<FONT face="Comic Sans MS">For what it's worth, I heard the change from cast to stainless headers in '98 and above was driven by the need to heat up the cats quicker. The cast exhaust manifolds cooled the exhaust gases at start-up hence greater emissions until the manifolds reached operating temperture. Weight savings was a fringe benefit only.</FONT f>

 

[Tom Welch]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

jwwiii,

The 98' and newer manifolds are a weight savings of 23 pounds but give no noticable difference in power.

There are lots of choices out there for headers and exhaust, please take a minute and click on the link below to see what we offer.

Thanks again,

Tom
Http://btrviper.com

 

[jwwiii]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

Thanks for responding. I am always skeptical about altering my Viper because I feel that there "is no free lunch". If I replace my factory headers and cats and fit the new ones to my Mopar street exhaust, what are the risks? Higher temperatures? Discolored side-sills? Real high temperature around the pedals, etc?

I have no problem buying the new headers and cats. What are the trade-offs involved? It just seems that something so logical might come from the factory as an option. What are the downsides if any? What should I buy, and who do you recommend I buy from? Does Mopar make some great aftermarket stuff? I would really appreciate your feedback. Maybe I have nothing to lose and everything to gain by changing headers and cats.

Thanks!

Jim Wallace

 

[Tom Welch]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

jwwiii,

The factory has enough troubles trying to meet cafe and emissions standards, not to mention the db levels of the average aftermarket exhaust system(skip shift as an example). A cast/factory tigged manifold is alot less labor intensive than a header, and the same goes for a larger diameter exhaust.

I have found that with coated headers, your engine compartment runs much cooler. A high flow cat/no cat will decrease the temperature in your sidesills. Mine run so cool that after several miles of driving i can place my hand on them without the fear of getting burnt.

Good luck in your search.

Tom
Http://btrviper.com

 

[Chuck 98 RT/10]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

I can understand your reason for skepticism. Its makes sense to question how aftermarket can compete with the big budget of a multi-billion dollar auto manufacturer. The equalizer is that aftermarket isn't choked by the government restrictions that Tom Welch mentioned. Exhaust is always the first thing modified, and headers are a biggie. What does that tell you?

Let us know what you decide.

 

[treynor]

Re: Are new replacement headers really an improvement over stock on 01\'RT?

FWIW, I have a '01 RT/10 which now has BTR Viper's Belanger headers & exhaust, high-flow cats, and the MOPAR ECU. Compared to my stock car with smooth tubes and K&N filters, my *average* gains in the powerband (3,500 - 5,800 RPM) are +25.3 HP and +29.4 ft/lbs. Peak gains are +30HP / +39 ft/lbs @ 3750 RPM. For more complete information, see my post in the "Performance Modifications" section.