Hi everyone,
The header on my 2003 MCS has separated into two parts, so I'm looking for replacement options.

Here’s what I’m hoping for in a replacement:

• California SMOG compliant: Header needs to avoid triggering any codes that would prevent smog approval
• Fitment: Something that fits without modifications, like enlarging fastening holes etc
• Cat: I’d like to avoid having to weld a catalytic converter to the header.
• Price: Looking for an affordable option since I'm mainly after a replacement. Performance gain would be great, but ok if not.

I’ve looked into headers here on the forum, but it seems California SMOG compliance really limits my options.

On a different note, the car has around 190k miles and has been all over the US, so I’m a bit concerned the header screws might be tough to loosen. Any tips for dealing with that?

And if anyone has a used header for sale, please let me know : )

Cheers,
Tom

 

Mine did this a few years ago, I was able to get a shop to weld it back together for less than $100. They didn't have to remove the header or anything. Mine failed because my motor mounts had failed, so you might want to check yours.

 

Revolution Mini Works shorty header will not code and fits right in.

Like dude above said, a competent exhaust shop should be able to weld yours back together. I had that done once before at a custom exhaust shop.

 

CARB compliant - Original Mini only. Big $. That is the only one I have found. $1700 for the one in an Auto - $2800 for one in a manual. Cali does not want to see welds - that will likely fail a visual inspection.

 

Is it possible to get a standard catless or sport cat header of your choosing and then have a shop cut and weld your old OE cat into it? That would make it pass the sniffer test and potentially save a bunch of cash. Sucks that such an old car is still required to pass

 

WTH? Seriously?? What difference does it make if there are welds as long as what comes out of the pipe is clean?

 

You are right, I agree with you.

 

Replying for the updates.

 

If this is going to be a CA car, I would recommend buying a used header and call it good. If the inspection site sees ANYTHING that does not look factory they will likely fail it. (ask me how I know)

 

I live in So.California and my regular smog guy said that visual welding or even upgraded supercharger pulleys will not flunk the bi-annual smog checks…

 

It amazes me - Due to the rash of catalytic converters being cut out/stolen; that a smog inspection sites would see welds as commonplace these days(?)

 

Had two CARB approved Magna Flow cats blow out (back-fire) , due to a bad fuel injector and they were both cut-out & welded in on my Transam GTA . No problem …