I have searched around and didn't really find a discussion regarding stock vs. aftermarket header. I have a 93 EX with the 4-2 header and 2-1 downpipe. I found a used aftermarket set at a junkyard but can't tell the brand. I'm sure it is aftermarket since it isn't the old rusted cast iron. They look fairly new and it is the same setup (4-2 header and 2-1 downpine). Is it worth replacing my stock header with this aftermarket set? The outlet at the cat measured at 2 inches.

Any input?

Thanks in advance

edit:
I understand the performance increase (if any) might not be that much but what about the reduction in weight since the aftermarket ones are stainless steel instead of the cast iron.

 

weight wise, yes. performance wise, yes. inspect for cracks and damaged hinges and if you do get it, get new gaskets for them.

make sure it have a CARB # stamped on it.

 

Thank you. What's the CARB# and where is it usually stamped?
Any specifics about what the performance improvement is mainly from? I thought headers in general were beneficial mainly for opening up the individual exhaust ports to minimize the exhaust pulses from fighting each other. Is the stock header (not shell type manifold) still somewhat restrictive?

Thanks again.

 

Ok. Well thanks anyway.

 

If you live in Cali, you'll want a header with a CARB #, which basically says it's approved to be street legal in areas with ultra-strict emissions and modfications laws, i.e. Cali. If it's CARB approved, the CARB # will be stamped somewhere near the top, where it would be visible while installed on the car.

Your stock piece is pretty good as is, but an aftermarket header will still show some improvement. Whether or not you'll feel the difference is another matter.

 

Not quite, some brands just give you a sticker with the part number and EO number. I think DC Sports just gives you a sticker but there are no markings on the header itself.

 

Really? I stand corrected. I had a DC header on one of my older cars, but it was a long, long time ago. (read: about 15 years ago.) My memory must be shot, because I thought it had something stamped on it.

I guess it's a good thing I don't have to deal with it here in Houston.

 

Thanks guys. No markings on these. I'm in AZ so I'm not gonna worry about it.

 

Well, I bought the headers. I can definitely tell a big difference on the mid range as soon as I hit 4000rpm. Right off the bat I could tell the aftermarket headers had bigger tubing at the top of the headers as well as at the connection with the cat. The stock headers actually got smaller at the point were they combine from 2 to 1 on the top headers. The stock headers were around 1.75in at the connection with the cat and the aftermarket ones were at 2in.

 

Because answering month + old posts is the new hawtness y0!
The DC Sports header has a metal tag tack welded to the tubes, it just says "DC SPORTS"