Will running open headers do damage to my engine? Looked other places and no one seems to be able to answer the question. Wasn't sure if it could do damage to my exhaust valves or not.

 

it'd sound horrible and throw codes, just run a nice aftermarket exhaust

 

Hey,

I really would not recommend this set up. As mentioned before, I don't thing you are going to like the sound that comes out and it will throw several codes.

This is also indeed bad for the engine. The engine does need some back pressure to run properly. Without the back pressure your engine will not completely scavenge, giving you less performance and improper air to fuel ratios. Also just in general whenever you have a check engine light, the computer automatically pulls some timing out, which is also not good for the engine for long periods and reduces performance.

I would keep the cars factory exhaust, or get any aftermarket system if you want some more sound and performance.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any questions. Good luck!

-Dan

 

There's a lot of speculation on the issue that cold air getting back into the exhaust after it's been running could potentially lead to warping of the valves, which leads to the valve seat not being proper. Of course, this doesn't explain why almost every version of Motorsport runs some sort of open header without issues, same goes for Auto and Motorcycle racing. It's fine, I wouldn't necessarily put myself in the situation even if it is just speculation that it could be an issue, but you'd be "that guy" around the neighborhood that makes everybody angry in the morning.

I'd say just out of respect for your neighbors don't do it, but it would be pretty fun to do it for a couple days just to see the reactions!

 

I say what the hell go for it! I think you will get better performance with a good aftermarket (unless your running it wide open)

 

it's because those engines are running wide open the full time, and can be rebuilt after every race.

 

Long tube headers with flowmaster exhaust sound great !!