Ive been seriously considering the Strup header. If I were to install them myself, it would really be a bang-for-the-buck mod. The thing is, how bad is the install really? Ive searched and found an average of about 5 hours install. Now installing test pipes took me about 3 hours, and I ran into no problems whatsoever. Im actually thinking of getting an air ratchet too for future installs. So thinking about a header install isnt really making me all that nervous. Should I be?

Bubble, I know you're a strup header man, can you chime in here?

 

2 words - good luck

lmao

 

When you install test pipes, you can see what you are doing. The pipe to exhaust manifold is a bit of a pain, but you can still see it.

Headers are a different story. The install is done virtually blind. With a lift and an assortment of ratchet extensions and swivels, I say go for it. With the car on jack stands, and laying on you back, I say forget it: leave the job to someone with the proper equipment and experience.

 

forget DIY, its gonna be sooooooooo hard! u won't be able to see ****! its take pros a long time.

 

It took me 5 hours to do my headers on jack stands. There were a few tense times with the install. But all and all it was a good time. Like David said, you will need extensions and swivel sockets.

The bolts that connect the cats to the headers were easier to get to with long extensions from the engine bay. You have to disconnect the stearing column, so make sure you mark it so your stearing wheel is not off centered. The hardest part for me was the passenger side of the header install. I believe the front two bolts were a pita. Its been awhile since the install, but i would do it again. And im sure this time i could do it in less time. And thats on Jack Stands. Wish i had a lift though

Good luck, let me know if you have any questions

Later
Aceman

 

Good to hear. Im not doubting the install is a pain at all, Im just trying to avoid paying $300+ for an install. I think this summer Im gonna give it a try. Ill even try and see if I can find somebody with connects to use a lift or a pit.

 

Thanks for the positive feedback aceman

 

Anytime, to me this is one of those parts that you should do yourself. Its a learning install. Plus it makes the performance you gain from the headers mean more to you. I really enjoy installing my own parts. Just take your time and dont get mad and throw stuff LOL.

OH, take a pic of your Knuckles before you start LOL they wont look like that when your done

Later
Aceman

 

So has anyone done a DIY write-up on header install? I've done every other mod I have, including full suspension swap; thinking of giving headers a DIY go, but would like to have some instructions to follow...

 

a total of about 9 hrs.

 

I will be installing headers in the next few days. I'm still waiting on the new gaskets to come in. I will put up a new thread with pics and impressions. Wish me luck!

-Acree

 

There is a write-up over at 350Zforum.com under the Tech section for some Nismo headers.

|dg

 

Use the stock SS gaskets. No DIY. You cant see in there. Just punch the motor to break in your knuckles!!

 

Here's a good DIY on headers, nice pictures and everything: http://www.zchickz.com/header1.htm
It does appear to be much more work than it's worth considering the gains. I did the cat-delete pipes and called it a day. Have never regreted it.

 

damn i don't know if i'm gonna do this myself anymore...hahahaha...maybe have a couple friends help...

 

Too many have done it themselves. Just do it! If you understand what you are doing (not neccessarily the experience), you don't need to see, you feel.
You will appreciate having done it yourself.

 

I believe it is a 2 person job. All jokes aside.