what does "lean up top" mean??? sorry, i'm a newbie... at what rpm's does it lean out at? thanks.

 

A header makes sense but only after you already have created a need for it with an improved intake, head , cam , tuning and exhaust. The reason for this is as far as stock headers go the Mini is really not that bad .There is one bad pinch point but the local shop here has been cutting and modifying that and solving most of the issues. As far as bang for buck goes it is even better than the OBX in that regard. I was given a well constructed and designed header to try when I first had the car and really didn't notice anything at all. As I did the rest of the mods I am sure the header was working better and providing me with a benefit but if you are expecting a very noticeable increase in performance you might be headed for a disappointment.

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

so if i do all of the above except the head and cam, are you saying that it is not worth it to add a header?

 

As you well know opinions are like you know what , everyone has one In MY opinion the real NEED for a header is when you do a free flowing head and cam. The stock header does a adequate job with the stock head but if you start flowing more IN then you need to expel more OUT. I am speaking from my own personal experience as the header was the second mod I had on the car . I was given the item from a sponsor and would never have spent the money for one at that stage of my modification process. The bottom line is it is your car . If you want to go for it do so. Its not like you are truly wasting the money you are just not maximizing the expense. As you mod further down the road the header will give you more benefit just not at this time.

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

As you point out opinions vary.

I think the obx header is a much better route to go over modifying the stock header. Not sure what the cost is associated w/ modifying stock header - might influence my decision. I think the OBX is ideal for a stock head/cam and perhaps even a ported head.

If I was going the big head/cam route, I would consider getting a matching header.

 

if i stay with the stock head & cam.... and add an obx header, what changes will i notice: hp/tq, gas mileage, butt dyno

 

from a butt dyno - you'll notice more tq.

 

All good points of course . For referance the local welder charges $40 for the mod .

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

I take it the work can be done w/out removing the manifold?

 

No it has to be removed . Not a tough job in any event just make sure the engine is cool

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

so whats the "all in cost" appr.? pay to remove/reinstall?

 

here's a parallel thread on modifying stock w/ pics - an option.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=59341

 

I have removed and re installed my header before so in my case there would be no labor . If ,in the OP case ,he wanted it done the point would be moot because if he was having a aftermarket header installed or just modifying his the labor cost would be the same . Agreed ?

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

Good find Bart. That is exactly the mod that the local shop does . Its not perfect but it is a good bang for the buck improvment.

Randy
M7 Tuning

 

It can be done while in the car, we did mine without removing it. Obviously would be an easier job removing it from the car, but we like to do things the hard way.
It is a nice improvement...a little more "go" and definitely smoother running. Not to mention no more black exhaust pipes and tips.

 

if this can be done all in for 40 bucks or so - I would have to say its worth considering. Now if you had to remove (i.e. $$) then I would proabably spend the difference for the OBX header.

This w/ a 1-ball would be good for the budget enthusiast.