Headers?

[joebob2586]

I have a muffler on order and wanted to throw a set of headers on the FJ...I have only found two companies JBA and Doug Thorley...any one using either of these? I cant really decide which one would be better...

 

[PhilC64]

I went with the JBA's and love em. The only issue is the collector needs to be welded to your catalytic converter which needs to get the neck cut down. IF you're handy you can do it but I let a local shop do the install. Just watch removing and re-installing the 6 O2 sensors. They're pretty pricey.

 

[joebob2586]

If I do the JBA's will the truck still pass smog check? and did you notice an increase at all after the install?

 

[PhilC64]

My headers haven't affected smog in any way and I never had a code thrown because of them.The JBA's are CARB certified so that shouldn't be a problem for you. Here they don't do sniff tests anymore, the just hook up to the OBD2 port and scan for codes. There is a performance difference with the headers. I have more noticable top end but with minor loss of low end torque. At least that's how it feels. I also have an aFe intake as well so ymmv if you stay with the stock intake. The better this motor breathes the more performance you get from it. You still won't be smoking tires with it though.

 

[joebob2586]

Now JBA offers three different types of headers is there any difference besides look between ceramic or stainless or the others?

 

[PhilC64]

Outside of stainless, the other coatings are more for heat dissipation. I went with the stainless. I'm not concerned with the under hood looks and the heat dissipation isn't a factor with a stock engine. Now if I was running a built up motor that would be a whole different story.

 

[Cruzrman]

Of all the vehicles I have had headers on, the biggest improvement was in torque. That's what they're really designed to improve the most. Mild horsepower gains are usually seen, but not nearly what you gain in torque. Just a thought.

 

[PhilC64]

Of all the vehicles I have had headers on, the biggest improvement was in torque. That's what they're really designed to improve the most. Mild horsepower gains are usually seen, but not nearly what you gain in torque. Just a thought.

As i said in my earlier post it was based on the "seat calibrated dyno". I know my torque has increased but my rig reacts differently now than it did stock i.e. The nose doesn't rise like it did in stock configuration at WOT.