I was recently talking to someone about headers, and the issue of coating came up. The person said that uncoated headers were responsible for the MELTING/BURNING of some of the sensors around the engine block, including the starter.
Is this really a problem? Is the heat generated by the pipes able to melt sensors?

Another quick question; recommended CAT-BACK for Heddman headers #68470

 

No, it's not necessary. It is a great help from what I hear.
Though without coating, you can't have anything laying on the headers as it will burn. Coating also keeps underhood temps lower and protects against rusting.

 

but i would recomend it, and yes those headers get plenty hot to melt away sensors, wires or whatever else happens to be too close to the headers. the coating can only help, it will knock down your engine bay temps considerably and not only that it makes the headers and the engine bay look alot cleaner in my opinion.

 

like they said not necessary but i opted to get my slp headers coated so they look good for awhile and keep engine bay temps down.

 

Coating offers a few benefits that I've read of and experienced:
Lower underhood temperatures, which means yes you can have things closer to them. Still, you won't be laying wires on your headers.
Longer lasting, no rusty headers needing to be replaced.
Improved performance.

 

In short:-

Necessary:- Not at all.
Desirable:- Absolutely.

Advantages:-
1. Better exhaust gas velocity, due to the increased temperature of the gases as less radiant heat is produced.
2. Aesthetically nicer than stock manifolds or rusty headers.
3. Lower ambient underhood temperatures.

Disadvantages:-
1. Cost.
2. ? Durability of some companies coatings in the long-term.

Also, any headers may possibly cause trouble with the starter motor - just ensure you have adequate clearance to allow airflow for cooling. With some headers the best long term idea is to fit a Mini-Starter.