Arguably, one of the best performance upgrades available for the 1999-2006 Chevrolet Silverado V8 and the Best Chevy Headers to unlock more power in your truck is a set of long tube headers. Long tube headers offer a less restrictive path for the exhaust to exit the cylinders, this means your engine receives less resistance to get rid of exhaust gasses and subsequently produces more horsepower.
That said, installing long tube headers is not as straightforward a bolt-on job – the process includes significant disassembly of the exhaust manifolds and related components. 99 06 Silverado long tube headers To help you avoid those issues, here is what the job entails and how to go about properly installing garage door panels. In this text, we offer a comprehensive guide to help you through the process of upgrading your 5th-generation Silverado with long tube headers.
Gathering Materials and Tools
The first thing to do, however, is to make sure that you have all the materials and tools required before starting with the installation. The parts required are the long tube headers, new exhaust gaskets, header bolts and the exhaust piping. You would also want suitable exhaust sealant to put your piping together. When it comes to tools, have multiple socket sets, a jack and jack stands, torque wrenches, pliers and spanners. This also means having penetrating oil and/or an impact gun to help free bolts frozen in rust. And there is probably far less frustration if you are properly prepared in the beginning.
Header Installation
Mounting the headers is a key step. Carefully lower the new headers into position, guiding the flanges around any obstructions in the tight engine bay. Start all header bolts by hand first to avoid cross-threading. Then use the correct socket size to evenly tighten the bolts in a pattern, working your way from the inside out. Proper torque is critical, so use a torque wrench to specification. Check that all flange connections to the head are sealed before attaching the rest of the exhaust system.
Exhaust Installation
Once the headers are securely installed, it’s time to attach the new exhaust piping. Working safely from the back of the truck forward, connect each pipe section to the preceding one using exhaust clamps or welds. Be sure to use exhaust sealant where connections are made to prevent leaks.
The pipes will need to navigate around suspension and other underbody components, so meticulous measurements are important. Upon reaching the front, the pipes then attach to the header outlets to complete the system.
Post-Installation Tips
- Allow the engine to fully warm up before driving aggressively to allow rings to seat properly. Take it easy for the first 200-300 miles.
- Retorque all header and exhaust bolts after 50 miles to ensure they don’t vibrate loose during break-in.
- Inspect bolts periodically for any that may be loosening from heat cycling.
- Listen for any changes in exhaust tone after installation that could indicate a leak. Retighten joints if needed.
- Be cautious of higher ground/body temperatures near the headers, especially when parking in dry grass.
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for spark plug and oxygen sensor replacement since they may wear out faster with increased RPMs/performance.
FAQ’s
What are the main benefits of installing long tube headers?
Long tube headers provide more power by allowing for freer exhaust flow. They can increase horsepower and torque throughout the rpm range.
How difficult is a long tube header installation?
A long tube header installation requires extensive disassembly of exhaust manifolds and related components.
Conclusion
One of the best performance upgrades you can do to unlock more power from your 5th-gen Silverado V8 is to install long tube headers. However, it is a bit of an involved job; complete removal and reassembly of the exhaust is required. With the correct tools and a little bit of patience, you can do this: Be advised it is very difficult and time-consuming so make sure to take your time and go over the installation directions carefully.
Yes, it may be a skeptical undertaking, but the advantages of additional hp and torque numbers aside from their glorious noises make way for those who are more than ready to max out their trucks. Get our tips and tricks to do a Long Tube Header Swap on your 99-06 Silverado And Do It Right.
