alright so unfortunately i live in california where everything is super strict. only dc and greddy headers are legal here. when looking i notice that i cant find any headers for the LX model, theyre all EX. the EX wont fit will they? if not what modifications do i need to do.

on a side note im also ordering an AEM short ram which comes with a CARB number. will they all come with a CARB number no matter where i order it from? or do i need or order it from AEM specifically?

any input is much appreciated

 

If you go with an EX header, you will also get the rest of the exhaust system to work. As for the AEM SRI, your gains will be 2 bhp at best, you'll only notice the noise.

 

Look at the Drivetrain section under the FAQ's here: https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-civic-2001-2005-78/faqs-guidelines-read-before-posting-2101211/

 

aright well i got a new exhaust so will the EX header fit to the new one?
sorry toyomatt couldnt find that in the FAQ

 

You won't be legal for emissions in CA. The DX/LX engine has the catalytic converter integrated into the exhaust manifold, where the EX has a separate manifold and converter.

AEM intakes are CARB compliant no matter if you buy them direct from AEM or from a distributor.

 

haha well i have a cracked manifold so i wont pass smog anyway...any suggestions?

 

Well, your options are pretty straight-forward:

1. Replace your DX/LX manifold with an OEM replacement (extremely costly, unless you can find one used).
2. Hunt around for an EX exhaust setup from exhaust manifold back (essentially the entire exhaust setup). You can re-use your DX/LX axle-back, but that is all.

Whether or not you want to buy an aftermarket, EX-based manifold is up to you.

 

yeah honda wanted to charge me something like a grand for a new manifold...so a full ex setup will work? will i have to get a new cat aswell?

 

or you can buy a header that fits an EX than buy a megan racing test pipe that has a high flow cat in it from their website. thats what i did for my LX and it works really well

 

thanks man...so will i need to ditch my whole new exhaust system then? haha

 

Unless you can cut and weld, you're not going to be able to mix exhaust systems.

DX/LX and EX and quite different. If you buy the aftermarket EX header, get an EX a-pipe (downpipe/catalytic converter) and b-pipe (mid-pipe), and then you can use the LX/DX axleback.

Otherwise you're stuck using LX/DX unless you buy an aftermarket a-pipe. (as noted by jdmhondaes1) But you'd still need the EX b-pipe to fit between the a-pipe (cat-delete) and the axleback/muffler portion of the exhaust.

 

i have a buddy with a shop that cut and weld so ill probably try that

 

ha found a guy to "pass" my car for smog
going with racing headers