Installation Tips
Header flange gaskets:
With all our headers we recommend using a flat gasket, either a fiber type or an annealed copper gasket. Do not use an embossed copper gasket that has a raised rib around the port. If we sent SCE flat annealed copper gaskets with your order we recommend applying a thin layer of Permatex Ultra Copper high temp silicone on both sides of the gasket port opening.
High temp anti-seize:
We recommend Permatex Copper Anti-seize to be used on header bolts and slip on collector mounting bolts. If your header has our slip on collectors, use a generous amount inside the slip on tubes. This will stop corrosion and help the collector to slip on much easier.
Individual header tubes:
If your header was built as a race style with individual tubes and slip on collectors, you will be installing one tube at a time. As you install each tube just snug the header bolts evenly, do not tighten. With all tubes installed, slip the collector on and tighten the mounting bolts. Then go back and tighten the header bolts.
Always check around header tubes for brake line, wiring and fuel line clearance.
Slip on collectors:
If your race header has been ceramic coated, there may be overspray inside the slip on tubes at the front of the collector. This should be smoothed off either by hand sanding with 80 grit sand paper or by using a 40 grit flapper wheel on a die grinder or high speed drill motor. Sand just enough to take the roughness off.
When installing slip on collectors coated or not, always apply a generous amount of high temp anti-seize to the inside of the slip on tubes. Cover the entire area inside of the slip on tubes. This will keep the connection from corroding and help the collector to slip on much easier. Our slip-on collectors are held on by tabs and bolts. One tab on each collector will be stamped left or right that tab needs to match up with the stamped tab on the header tube.
Collector flanges:
If we are installing a 3 bolt style flange on the end of your collectors, we can clock the odd bolt up or down, your choice. A 4” collector will have a 4 bolt flange. For exhaust system connections we can use a flange type, a slip on type with mounting tabs on each side or a “V” band clamp type connection. Each has a different cost.
Ceramic coated headers:
When installing polished silver ceramic coated headers, they should first be wiped down with rubbing alcohol. Use a clean white cloth to apply the alcohol, then a clean dry white cloth to remove the residue. If your headers have slip on collectors, read the slip on collectors section on this page. After the headers have been installed, repeat the alcohol cleaning process to any areas that are accessible. This will remove the fingerprints, grease, excess anti-seize, smudges, etc. Next start your engine and let it idle for about 5 minutes, then shut the engine off and let it completely cool down. Next run the engine again for about 10 minutes and then let it cool down. This process will help to bake the new finish on, making it tougher and will greatly reduce the chance of any dulling of the finish in the future.
Spark plug wiring:
For all of our Big Block and LS headers we recommend a 45 degree wiring boot and for all of our Small Block headers we recommend a 90 degree wiring boot.
Installation supplies:
We recommend the following products for installation.
- 40 grit flapper wheel
- Permatex copper anti-seize
- Permatex Ultra copper silicone
Thank you for selecting Lemons Headers
(805-239-8998)