Installing SLP Headers on an F-Body Car

Preparation

Before you begin the installation, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This includes a jack, jack stands, socket wrench set, torque wrench, and a new gasket set for the exhaust manifolds. It’s also a good idea to have a friend or assistant on hand to help with the heavier parts.

Removal of Old Manifolds

With the car safely jacked up and supported, you can begin removing the old exhaust manifolds. This process can be a bit tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with working on cars. Here’s a step-by-step guide⁚

1. Disconnect the battery⁚ This is a crucial safety measure to prevent any electrical hazards during the process.
2. Locate the exhaust manifold bolts⁚ These bolts are typically located at the top, bottom, and sides of the manifold, connecting it to the engine block.
3. Spray penetrating oil⁚ Before attempting to loosen the bolts, apply penetrating oil to each bolt to help break loose any rust or corrosion. Allow the oil to penetrate for a few minutes.
4. Loosen the bolts⁚ Using a socket wrench, carefully loosen each bolt in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful not to strip the bolt heads, especially if they are rusty.
5. Remove the old manifold⁚ Once all the bolts are loose, gently pull the manifold away from the engine block. There may be some resistance due to the gasket material, but with careful leverage, it should come off.
6. Inspect the manifold⁚ Before discarding the old manifold, take a moment to inspect it for any damage or cracks. This can help you determine if the old manifold was the source of any exhaust leaks.
7. Clean the mounting surfaces⁚ After removing the old manifold, use a wire brush or scraper to clean any rust or debris from the engine block and manifold mounting surfaces. This will ensure a proper seal for the new headers.

Remember, patience is key during this process. If a bolt is particularly stubborn, don’t force it. Use a breaker bar or an impact wrench if necessary, but be careful not to damage the bolt or surrounding components. If you encounter any difficulties, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. Removing the old manifolds is a critical step in the SLP header installation process, and ensuring it’s done correctly will pave the way for a smooth installation of the new headers.

Installation of SLP Headers

With the old manifolds removed and the mounting surfaces cleaned, you’re ready to install the SLP headers. This process requires careful alignment and proper torqueing of the bolts. Follow these steps for a successful installation⁚

1. Prepare the headers⁚ Before installing the headers, make sure they are free of any debris or packaging material. Check the gasket surfaces for any damage or imperfections.
2. Align the headers⁚ Carefully align the headers with the engine block, ensuring the header flanges are properly positioned against the mounting surfaces.
3. Install the header bolts⁚ Start by installing a few of the bolts to hold the headers in place. Hand-tighten the bolts to secure the headers;
4. Install the header gaskets⁚ Place the new header gaskets on the flanges of the headers, making sure they are properly centered and aligned.
5. Tighten the bolts⁚ Use a torque wrench to tighten the header bolts to the specified torque setting, usually between 20-25 ft-lbs. Tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern to ensure even pressure.
6. Double-check for leaks⁚ After tightening the bolts, carefully inspect the header connections for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, re-tighten the bolts or replace the gaskets as needed.
7. Install the header collectors⁚ If the SLP headers include a collector, install the collector according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the collector is properly sealed to prevent leaks.
8. Install the header heat shields⁚ If the headers come with heat shields, install them securely to prevent damage to surrounding components.

Remember, it’s crucial to use the correct torque wrench setting for the header bolts. Over-tightening the bolts can damage the threads or the header flanges. If you encounter any difficulties during the installation process, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Connecting Exhaust System

With the SLP headers securely in place, it’s time to connect the rest of the exhaust system. This involves connecting the headers to the exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, and mufflers. Proper alignment and sealing are crucial to ensure a smooth exhaust flow and prevent leaks.

1. Connect to the exhaust pipes⁚ Start by connecting the headers to the exhaust pipes. This usually involves using a new set of gaskets and bolts. Align the pipes with the header collector flanges, ensure the gaskets are properly positioned, and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
2. Install catalytic converters⁚ If your exhaust system includes catalytic converters, install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Align the converters with the exhaust pipes, install the gaskets, and tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
3. Connect to the mufflers⁚ Connect the mufflers to the exhaust system, ensuring they are properly aligned and secured. Use new gaskets and bolts, and tighten them to the specified torque.
4. Check for leaks⁚ After connecting all the exhaust components, carefully inspect the connections for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, re-tighten the bolts or replace the gaskets as needed.
5. Secure the exhaust system⁚ Once you’ve ensured there are no leaks, secure the exhaust system to the undercarriage of the car using the appropriate mounting brackets and hardware.

Remember, it’s essential to use high-quality exhaust gaskets and bolts to prevent leaks and ensure a long-lasting exhaust system. If you’re not familiar with exhaust system work, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic.

Final Adjustments and Testing

After installing the SLP headers and connecting the exhaust system, it’s crucial to perform final adjustments and thorough testing to ensure everything is working correctly and safely. This includes checking for leaks, tightening loose connections, and verifying the engine’s performance.

1. Inspect for leaks⁚ Start by carefully inspecting all the connections in the exhaust system for any leaks. Run the engine for a few minutes and listen for any hissing or popping sounds that could indicate a leak. If you find any leaks, re-tighten the bolts or replace the gaskets as needed.
2. Tighten connections⁚ Double-check that all the bolts and connections are securely tightened to the specified torque. Loose connections can lead to leaks, rattling, and potential safety hazards.
3. Check for clearance issues⁚ Make sure that the headers and exhaust pipes have ample clearance from any surrounding components, including the steering linkage, suspension, and body panels. If you find any interference, adjust the positioning or make necessary modifications to avoid damage.
4. Test drive⁚ Once you’re confident that everything is properly installed and secured, take the car for a test drive. Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or performance changes.
5. Monitor engine performance⁚ Keep an eye on the engine’s performance, particularly the temperature gauge and exhaust fumes. If you notice any unusual readings or smells, address them promptly.
6. Adjustments⁚ If you encounter any issues during the test drive, make the necessary adjustments and re-test until everything is operating correctly and safely.

By performing these final adjustments and thorough testing, you can ensure a successful installation of your SLP headers and enjoy the performance gains and improved exhaust sound they offer. Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or have concerns about the installation, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.