What's the difference?
 

Between equal-length, full-length and shorty headers? For maximum HP, which is the best bet?

Also, is it worth the extra $400 or so to go with Hooker as opposed to other brands our there? I imagine it probably would be...just wondering.

RE: What's the difference?
 

by saying full-length i assume you mean long tubes which are just that, the pipes extend down much further and you will need a different midpipe. LTs create the most power. now there are equal and un-equal shorties which will mount to the stock midpipe or that style. they are also just what they sound like equal length shorties meaning each pipe is exactly the same length, unequals mean the pipes are not all the same length.

RE: What's the difference?
 

How does the equal length vs the shorty effect HP? Or at this level is it a lot more to do with sound? Also, when looking for a finish, what should I get? Or is that based on preference? I just want longevity. Painted, chrome, stainless, polished stainless, ceramic...so many choices.

RE: What's the difference?
 

for a good price, u can get some bbk shorties equal w/ a chrome finish. i did, they look nice. basically, i reccomendthat what u get are 1 5/8" in and 2 1/2" out. make sure you x/h pipe is 2 1/2" and stick with those sizes.

"by alternativeauto tech",
Full length headers offer a more substantial horsepower gain than shorties. The problem with full length headers is that there are currently no emissions legal versions on the market and when installing them it is necessary to modify the exhaust system to accept them. Shorties offer a more cost efficient way of scavenging exhaust fumes and almost all are emissions certified. When installing shorties it is not necessary to alter the exhaust system in any way, they bolt right in place of your factory exhaust manifolds.

RE: What's the difference?
 

equal: will give you more flow

http://www.mustangupgrades.net/musta...ual_length.gif

un-equal:

http://www.need-4-speed.com/mac4.jpg