Table of Contents
- Manifolds Functions
- Exhaust Flow and Backpressure
- Performance Gains with Headers
- Aural Impact
- DIY or Professional?
- Installation Considerations
- Invest in Performance!
Stock manifolds focus on affordability and emissions, while headers prioritize getting exhaust out faster. Their design, with better bends and wider tubes, lets exhaust flow more easily. This means more power for your car (horsepower and torque) and potentially a throatier engine sound. If you own a Nissan Hardbody or a 1998 Honda Accord, this upgrade is a must-have. However, the decision between a DIY upgrade and a professional upgrade depends on various factors. To get a better understanding of this, you must first familiarize yourself with other important details. Here are the details!
Manifolds Functions
Every car has an exhaust system, like a chimney that gets rid of used fumes after the engine burns fuel. The exhaust manifold sits right where the work is done. It’s a metal pipe bolted directly to the engine, with openings that connect to each cylinder. Think of each cylinder as a mini chamber that burns fuel and creates hot, used gas. The manifold acts like a collector, gathering all this hot gas from each cylinder into a single stream. This single stream then flows out of the manifold and into the rest of the exhaust system, where it is eventually released out of the tailpipe.
Exhaust Flow and Backpressure
Your car engine needs to expel burnt fumes quickly to make room for fresh air and fuel for the next power cycle. That’s where the exhaust manifold comes in. It’s a metal collector that gathers hot exhaust gas from each cylinder and channels it into a single stream. Ideally, this flow should be smooth and unrestricted. However, stock manifolds can create backpressure, like trying to blow up a balloon with your thumb partially covering the opening. This resistance makes it harder for exhaust gases to escape, reducing power and efficiency. Performance headers address this by using smoother bends and wider tubes. This allows for a faster, less restricted flow of exhaust, essentially helping your engine breathe easier and perform at its full potential.
Performance Gains with Headers
Stock exhaust manifolds are designed to minimize emissions. On the other hand, performance headers are engineered to gain hidden power. They have the advantage of smoother bends and larger diameter tubes compared to stock manifolds, which leads to improved exhaust flow. This is a critical factor in increasing horsepower and torque. As a result, you can expect a more responsive and powerful ride, with noticeable improvements in acceleration and passing power. Below are two top recommended headers by Flashark Racing:
1. 1998-2002 Honda Accord 4-2-1 Headers
Unleash the hidden potential of your 98 Honda Accord headers with our performance-enhancing 4-2-1 headers. These headers feature a design that optimizes exhaust flow, a key factor in engine performance. Smoother bends and larger diameter tubes allow exhaust gases to escape more efficiently, reducing backpressure and restriction. Experience a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque, giving your Accord the extra pep it needs.
2. 1990-1995 Nissan Hardbody 2.4L Headers
You can enhance the performance of your Nissan Hardbody 2.4 headers with this direct bolt-on header. By replacing the restrictive factory exhaust manifold with this header, you can unlock hidden power due to its larger diameter tubes and smoother bends. This improved exhaust flow results in a significant increase in horsepower and torque, providing exhilarating acceleration and improved performance on challenging road conditions. Your Hardbody will be more responsive, making every drive more enjoyable.
Aural Impact
Installing headers can alter your car’s exhaust sound. Because they typically allow for smoother exhaust flow, headers can potentially create a more noticeable exhaust note. This doesn’t necessarily mean a negative change, it could be a deeper, sportier sound that some enthusiasts prefer. Predicting the exact change in sound is difficult, however, because exhaust systems are complex. The final sound depends on several factors, including the specific design of the headers and your existing exhaust system components.
DIY or Professional?
Installing a header is a complex task that requires accessing and maneuvering around tight spaces in your car’s engine bay. However, doing it yourself may be challenging for inexperienced persons. Disassembling the exhaust system involves removing various components. You will need to fight rust, corrosion, and cramped quarters. During this procedure, you will be required to keep track of numerous parts and fasteners. Alternatively, if you are an expert with such installation and have a good understanding of your car’s engine system, go for the DIY method. Brands usually provide step-by-step instructions for easy installation. However, try getting the required tools kit and workspace, before considering a DIY installation.
Installation Considerations
Here’s a list of things you must consider before going for an upgrade:
- Installing performance headers on your car will fill the exhaust system with new components, potentially altering the sound.
- The sound change caused by headers might fill the cabin with a deeper, sportier exhaust note.
- Ensure the headers are compatible with your car and comply with local regulations.
- It may improve power output but might require adjustments to maintain optimal engine operation.
Invest in Performance!
Don’t settle for average when it comes to performance-boosting upgrades of your vehicle. Invest in the products that truly offer the desired results. Flashark Racing is your one-stop shop for performance needs. We offer a wide range of upgrades to boost your car’s power, handling, and sound. Visit Flashark Racing today and unlock your car’s full potential.
