So my comptech 4-1 header just arrived that I bought off the forums. This will be my first time installing a header and I had a quick question. Should I be replacing any gaskets, or are they fine to re-use?

Also I'm assuming installation is straight forward...

- Unbolt heatshield
- Remove AF sensor
- Unbolt from cat
- Unbolt from engine

and install the new piece? Any weird quirks I should know about? Thanks guys

Edit: I've read I may need to jack the engine up a bit, also consensus seems to be remove the old one from the bottom, install new one from the top??

 

Well, the manifold gasket is relatively inexpensive so you might as well replace it so you don't have to worry about exhaust leaks. The donut on the other end should be fine unless you knock a chunk out of it somehow. There are several threads concerning removing your factory header. Its actually a PITA. I think its best to remove it from the bottom but opinions vary. GL

 

Also another question while I have this thread open: Heat management, what are my options?

I've read that heat-wrap can cause premature cracking. Is this only with traditional wraps? Would say, DEI Titanium heatwrap suffer the same problem?

http://www.designengineering.com/category/...p-lr-technology

And then there's coatings, but I'm unfamiliar about the options in that department. Thanks again

 

I will replace gasket.
When I had headers on my previous car, I went with jethot, I was happy with it. I'm not fan of wrap manifold or exhaust pipe, there are many option/info/pros/cons about wrap vs coating thru other forums.

 

if the header doesnt go through under or over you might have to remove the engine mount and lift the engine a bit. makes it easier to fit.

 

Each header usually goes in a certain way, depending on it's design. For my ASM header, I had to remove the passenger side motor mount, AND jack the engine up about 2 inches.

I'd also recommend installing a new donut gasket and flange gasket.

 

Do you happen to know the part numbers on those Fish22?

Also, The part numbers on the flex bolts at the cat/header joint? I heard those are prone to breaking

Thanks guys appreciate the help as always

 

Parts 9 and 10 and 17. You will need 2 of each.


http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/j...y5=EXHAUST+PIPE

 

Majestic is the best place to get the stuff you need.

 

Also, here is the illustration for the flange gasket. It's #3

http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/j...XHAUST+MANIFOLD


The donut gasket is in the other illustration posted, and it's #8.