After reading of multiple issues with the Thorley SAI headers for the 06-07, I'm looking at other install options.
Currently waiting on a quote for stainless steel (304) block off flanges/plates that would allow installation of the earlier 98-05 Thorley headers on 06-07 trucks. With SAI equipped trucks, you either need to block off the SAI head ports with a plate or tap the holes and block off with nutserts and hi temp threadlocker. Obviously plates are less permanent.
The way this works is: install 06/07 OEM gasket, then stack block off plate (1/8 or 3/16"), then thorley gasket, then header and bolt down.
Pros:
-98-05 Thorley headers are significantly cheaper and seem more readily available
-No concerns with primary tubes rubbing on frame/mount like the 06/07 SAI headers
-easier installation - no blind bolts w/ the SAI tubing
Cons:
-for 'off road' use only
-have to disable/bypass the SAI system (Hewitt kit for $100ish)
Probably more pros and cons I'm missing...this is not a new concept. Folks have been doing this on other 2uz vehicles for some time (Tundra, GX, etc).
Anyways - let me know if there's any interest and post up concerns, etc. This would be at most a small batch production and not a regularly stocked item.
Block offs would look something like this (These are 2uz tundra block offs)
Currently waiting on a quote for stainless steel (304) block off flanges/plates that would allow installation of the earlier 98-05 Thorley headers on 06-07 trucks. With SAI equipped trucks, you either need to block off the SAI head ports with a plate or tap the holes and block off with nutserts and hi temp threadlocker. Obviously plates are less permanent.
The way this works is: install 06/07 OEM gasket, then stack block off plate (1/8 or 3/16"), then thorley gasket, then header and bolt down.
Pros:
-98-05 Thorley headers are significantly cheaper and seem more readily available
-No concerns with primary tubes rubbing on frame/mount like the 06/07 SAI headers
-easier installation - no blind bolts w/ the SAI tubing
Cons:
-for 'off road' use only
-have to disable/bypass the SAI system (Hewitt kit for $100ish)
Probably more pros and cons I'm missing...this is not a new concept. Folks have been doing this on other 2uz vehicles for some time (Tundra, GX, etc).
Anyways - let me know if there's any interest and post up concerns, etc. This would be at most a small batch production and not a regularly stocked item.
Block offs would look something like this (These are 2uz tundra block offs)
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