Altima Headers

PRIMARY PIPE LENGTH

The length of the primary pipes affect torque. Where the headers diameter affects the torque peak relative to rpm, the length affects the shape of the torque curve. Longer primaries provide more torque below the peak and reduce it past the peak. Shorter primaries provide more torque above the peak at the expense of below-peak torque. More torque in the low- to mid-rpm range is important to tuners who want that feeling of seat-of-your-pants performance on the street. Longer primaries also reduce the chance of escaping exhaust's being drawn back up another pipe.

In order to keep the torque curve the same for all cylinders, it is important that primary pipes be equal in length. Exactly how equal they have to be is more critical on uncorked race cars than for the vast majority of mild-engined street cars running through mufflers. In most applications, pipe length deviation of 2 to 3 inches on a set of full-length headers is not a problem.

What to look for:

• Dyno tuned headers and tested against the competition for maximum performance
• CAD-rendered, two-piece 4-2-1 headers design with threaded flanges for easy installation.
• 50-state legal or pending legality headers
• 4-2-1 design emphasizes low and mid-range power for street/strip applications
• CNC-machined flanges and O-ring seals eliminate leaks from the headers
• Available in 100 Percent 304 brushed or polished stainless steel (including flanges), or mild steel with ceramic coating
• CNC mandrel bends with robotically-welded fittings deliver perfect fit
• CNC-machined and threaded flanges eliminate leaks from the headers

BOTTOM LINE

There isn't one perfect header. Each style has its pros and cons. The good news for owners with engines built for street use is that any style of header is going to provide a noticeable performance improvement over your old exhaust manifold. The three primary considerations facing you are performance, appearance, and fit. Your job now is to find the headers that meet your needs in all three areas.  Your headers are out there.

Altima Headers