JustWinBaby26

Hey guys. Two quick questions. I'm trying to get some bolt on's squared away on my 2000 GT and am a bit confused on which route to go. Exhaust first, obviously. I'm going with H-pipes and a cat back, but the question still remains if I NEED headers? I've heard a bit of a debate when this question is asked. Some guys believe that they are not necessary until you get above the 500hp range because the stock manifolds work very well on the 4.6. I've heard others say they are absolutely necessary. I ask because I also want to put cams in. I'll probably go with comp cams stage 2's, but am actually considering spending a little more money on new value springs and retainers and getting stage 3's. Do I NEED headers? And also, this is my daily driver and was curious if I can still use a stage 2 or 3 cam while driving on the freeway? I'd guess maybe that depends on the gears and tuning? Or am I dreaming with that? Lol. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

CalBoy101

The bang for the buck you get from either long tubes or short tubes is pretty small with headers. Some dyno results show a little gain (like 5 to 10 HP), some none at all.

When the header manufacturers aren't bragging about real world dyno results in their marketing materials that tells you something.

You are better off spending your go fast money on cams, heads and gears first, LT's should be last on the list.