This weekend i installed a pair of no-name brand shorty headers which was a super son of a b**** because i had to unbolt and jack up the motor on both sides. Anyway, i made sure everything was tight and i fired it up. I could hear a bit of what sounded like an exhaust leak (i used to work in muffler shop) and i put a few more strokes on the nuts on the x-pipe. Fired it back up and it was gone...until i took it for a drive. It only makes the 'puff' noise when i'm on the pedal. I'm pretty sure i tightened them enough (i didn't want to ring off the bolts).
The question: Is this an exhaust leak or do headers sound differently than the old manifolds? Might be a stupid question but just making sure.

 

post a sound file and we will tell ya...

 

Nevermind. I found the leak(s). I have a bad habit of getting in too much of a hurry and/or not reading instructions. After some research i found that the bolts are supposed to be torqued to 18 ft/lbs starting at the upper-most rear and working forward alternating top to bottom. Since i didn't do that i guess i need new gaskets. My bad habits are putting scars on my knuckles and making my wallet less fat.

 

Yep haste makes waste...slow down and focus...

 

That's what she said.

I'm curious if i can salvage the gaskets by unbolting the headers and torquing the bolts back down in order. Maybe. :-/

 

Well, there was no exhaust leak. I took it to the dealer and they looked all over it and even re-snugged all the bolts. Nothing. Later i ran a can of seafoam through the intake. No smoke except from the tail pipes. I guess they just make that hiss noise. I do believe that i fouled the HO2 sensor. Keeps throwing a P2197 code. The sensor did get a little moist when i had it out because of the rain. 'Nuther $50.

 

Installing headers is such a joy on this car! Took me all weekend even with help.

 

Same here except i did it by myself.

 

Woe is me. Headers in, no leaks, CEL went away...now it's the clutch. Throw-out bearing started screeching yesterday. FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU...............!!!!