I have pretty much decided on doing LT headers even though I said I would leave everything stock....Oh well. More than likely I plan on getting Hedman elites. I am debating whether to keep or get rid of the AIR system. It doesn't seem like there is a real benefit to keeping it. I don't have to pass emissions. The headers w/o AIR are cheaper, but I have to buy the eliminator kit, so it's a wash. I am unsure then if I'm going to run a hi-flow cat or what.

Anyone care to chime in with their opinions? What do you have on your set up and any pics? Unlike most guys, I don't want my car to be loud. My wife doesn't care for it super loud, and I'm not a fan of drone at cruising speed.

Ideas are appreciated.

Matthew

1989 coupe, all stock.

Headers I'm looking at:

http://store.summitracing.com/partdet ... 189+4294924930+4294799365

http://store.summitracing.com/partdet ... 189+4294924930+4294799365

Check Hedman's site to be sure, but if they are both from their Elite series and you don't require AIR and EGR then go with the cheaper ones of course. But pay attention. All Elites are coated but not all coated Hedmans are Elites. The Elites are what you want because they have a much thicker 3/8" flange which won't warp, contributing to leak problems. They also have thicker gauge pipe which will contribute to longer life. This is especially important because Hedman coats their headers on the outside only. Hedman's also have a couple of pipes that are pretty close to the plugs so make sure and get some quality plug wires with good heat resistance, such as MSDs. Using "shorty" plugs will help here too. Given the options for C4s, the Elite Hedmans are not a bad option for the price. I'd certainly recommend them compared to the next cheapest alternative, which are Hookers. Unless you're making in excess of (at least) 400 HP. The larger primary tube size on the Hookers are a disadvantage, torque-wise, in the RPM ranges where most of us operate 99.999% of the time.

I have Exotic Muscle that they custom made for me with no air fittings and an O2 bung. They are doing a group purchase on CF. Price $670 shipped.

Good quality, nice fit.

I went with TPIS and capped the A.I.R fitting on the headers. I didn't think I was going to removed the A.I.R before purchase but then decided to. i have no regrets about ripping it out and would do it again.

Patsfan

Thanks for the replies- the biggest attraction to the Hedman Elites is that I think they are the best value. Sure there are more expensive and arguably better out there, but this isn't a show car or a drag racer, it's my tinker-toy.

What about cats? Would one high flow cat be enough? I don't think I would need precats with that? What pieces would I need to build the entire system?

Thanks,

Matthew

Have you considered the Tri-Ys? I want to get these but I really should replace my engine at the same time I don't want it pissing oil all over them, but I don't want to hassle with the mains and pan gasket again either.

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/showthread.php?p=1564624094

I've been watching these for awhile, he doesn't have any for sale right now, so you may have to wait a bit.

I remember reading that post and being interested, but still seems no one has them....so nothing to really compare with. Plus, it's unknown when they will be available. I'd like to know the cost, too.

I'll keep that in the back of my mind though, thanks.

Anyone have pics of their set-up? I am a more hands on person and I need to see things....

Matthew