Im looking into headers for a 91 camaro rs. How difficult are they to install myself? Would i need any special tools etc.? also, how much would it cost to get them installed by a shop? what kind of headers should i get? should i get shorty or long tube? Thanks for your time.



-Tim-

 

I'll assume the words "smog test" mean something to you.

Get emissions-legal shorties for '86-'90 TPI single-cat application, and cat & cat-back for same. Yes, I know, you don't have TPI. But, those headers, whether from Hooker (2055's), Edelbrock (TES), Hedman, or SLP, will be the best you can do from a performance standpoint, and won't give the Smog ***** cause to haul you off in the middle of the night. And, they will support any other future upgrades you may decide to make (like a 350 swap).

You can install them yourself if you have basic hand tools and means to get and support the car a foot or so off the ground. The hardest part is getting the old stuff out (Saws-All helpful there). A shop is going to ream you for the job - more for labor than the parts cost (if they'll even take it on).

 

Flowtechs are the cheapest with 1 1/2 inch primaries. They cost around 80 from Summit but do not have air tubes needed for emissions.

 

Install them yourself. Check the sticky at the top of the page. I recommend the Hooker 2055 headers.

 

Thanks guys.... one more thing... im in california, does that change anything (smog legal wise)?

 

Yes. Like I said.

Get an emissions-legal version. They will cost more, but they'll have the y-pipe, which makes installation easier, and won't cause you any problems at smog test time.

Flowtech makes an emissions-legal version, p/n 16102. I would recommend the other Holley brand, though, the Hooker 2055's I mentioned above.

 

wait.... I was under the assumption that headers in an 89-92 RS couldn't be installed without raising the engine out of the bay.

 

You may or may not have to raise the engine off the engine mounts. But, you don't have to remove it.

 

thanks guys....

That was very helpful....

I appreciate it