Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

Do the aftermarket (PaceSetter, DC Sports, etc) 4-2-1 exhaust headers flow any better than the stock 4-2-1? Is there real power to be gained here?

93 Accord EX, F22A6. Thx!

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

No, just stick with stock is my advice. It's going to last the longest.

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

Thanks for the reply.

The reason I ask is that my original downpipe has failed. I am running a cheap aftermarket one from eBay, the fit isn't great on it, was about an inch too short, and the pipe diameter at the collector is smaller than stock. I'm a bit concerned it may be robbing me of power. But I was able to bolt it up.

I was considering buying an OEM replacement from Walker, they have front pipe assemblies for about $100 shipped (they currently have a $50 promotion). Or, for about $220, I could get the Pacesetter header and downpipe.

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

I'd just go junkyard diving and get the correct OEM part off a scrapped car for $20 or so.

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

I've tried but most of the OEM flex pipes are either blown out, or chopped off. The yards here cut out the converters and usually destroy the front pipe assembly while doing it.

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

Totally understand, that's how most are around here as well.

Re: Power gains from aftermarket 4-2-1 header
 

I measured the collector diameter of my eBay front pipe today. 1.5" inner diameter. According to this site here, 1.5" piping is only good to about 78 HP. The original collector was about 2" ID.

So buyer beware of cheap eBay parts! This cheap downpipe is clearly restricting the motor's output.