Exhaust Header · SKU 701807502604
Chevy Block Hugger Tight-fit Exhaust Headers Small Block LS1 LS6 4.8 5.3 1997 UP
A pair of 1-5/8 inch mandrel-bent exhaust headers for 1997 and newer Chevrolet Gen III small block LS1 and LS6 engines with 4.8L and 5.3L displacements. Designed as a tight-fit block hugger style for street rods and hot rods, it replaces the factory exhaust manifolds with improved flow and performance. The headers ship as a complete pair with two gaskets and bolts, and require the use of 916-18016 motor mount adapters for proper clearance with OEM mounts.
- MaterialStainless Steel
- Size1-5/8 inch primary tubes
- FlangeMachined 3/8 inch
- Collector2-1/2 inch TIG welded
What You Get
Key Benefits
- Mandrel-bent 1-5/8 inch primary tubes maintain consistent diameter for smooth exhaust flow and higher velocity
- 16-gauge heavy duty tubing increases strength and durability under high heat and vibration
- TIG welded 2-1/2 inch collector provides maximum joint strength and long-term reliability
- Machined 3/8 inch header flanges ensure a flat sealing face for a leak-free connection
- Premium aluminum gaskets included to prevent exhaust leaks at the manifold joint
- Tight-fit block hugger design maximizes clearance in engine bays with limited space
Why Buyers Switch
Problems It Solves
- Factory exhaust manifolds restrict flow and reduce throttle response in LS engines
- OEM manifolds crack under heat cycling and are difficult to replace without custom fabrication
- Generic headers require cutting and welding to fit tight engine bays
Where It Is Used
Application Scenarios
- Street rod builders upgrading LS-powered vehicles for better throttle response and exhaust note
- Hot rod shops installing performance headers on 1997+ Chevy trucks and muscle cars
- Distributors stocking vehicle-specific LS headers for the 1997-up market
- Online sellers needing a photographed, fitment-verified header with a clean part number
Buyers
Who It Is For
- Performance parts distributors buying LS engine headers in bulk
- Street rod and hot rod builders who need a bolt-on header with minimal clearance issues
- Auto accessory wholesalers serving the American LS engine enthusiast market
Construction
Technical Features
- Pair of 1-5/8 inch primary tubes with mandrel bending for consistent diameter
- 2-1/2 inch TIG welded collector for structural integrity
- Machined 3/8 inch header flanges for flat sealing faces and leak-free joints
- 16-gauge heavy duty tubing for strength and heat resistance
- Includes two gaskets and bolts for immediate installation
- Tight-fit block hugger design for compact engine bays
Data
Specifications
| Material | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Size | 1-5/8 inch primary tubes |
| Flange | Machined 3/8 inch |
| Collector | 2-1/2 inch TIG welded |
| Gaskets | Premium aluminum included |
| Package | 1 pair exhaust headers, 2 gaskets, 2 bolts |
| Fitment | 1997 and newer Chevrolet Gen III small block LS1, LS6, 4.8L, 5.3L |
| Exclusion | Does not fit with OEM LS-Series motor mounts without 916-18016 adapters |
Material
Materials
- Stainless steel tubing
- Machined 3/8 inch flanges
- Premium aluminum gaskets
- Steel bolts
Manufacturing
How It Is Made
Mandrel bending of 1-5/8 inch primary tubes to maintain consistent diameter
TIG welding of flanges to tubes and collector assembly
Final inspection for weld integrity and fitment before packing
Checks
Quality Control
- Flange flatness checked with a straight edge before welding
- Weld seams inspected for pinholes and incomplete fusion
- Fitment tested against a known LS engine block to confirm clearance
- Gaskets and bolts verified for correct size and quantity before packing
Private Label
Customisation Options
- Private label packaging available on request
- Bulk cartons for container shipments instead of individual boxes
Comparison
Compared With The Alternatives
| Factory exhaust manifolds | The stock manifolds restrict flow and reduce throttle response; these headers improve exhaust velocity and engine performance |
|---|---|
| Universal headers | Universal headers require cutting and welding to fit; this one bolts on directly with no modifications |
| Low gauge headers | 16-gauge tubing resists warping and cracking under heat better than thinner 18-gauge or 20-gauge alternatives |
Installation
Use Guide
- Confirm the engine is a 1997 or newer Chevrolet Gen III LS1 or LS6 with 4.8L or 5.3L displacement
- Verify that OEM LS-Series motor mounts are not in use; if so, install 916-18016 adapters first
- Clean cylinder head and header flange mating surfaces before installation
- Install new gaskets and torque bolts evenly in a crisscross pattern
- Recheck torque after the first heat cycle to prevent leaks
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Answers
Questions About This Part
Will this fit my 1998 Corvette with a 5.7L LS1?
Yes. The part covers 1997 and newer Chevrolet Gen III small block LS1 and LS6 engines with 4.8L and 5.3L displacements. The 5.7L LS1 is not listed, but the 4.8L and 5.3L LS1 variants are covered.
Do I need to modify the motor mounts?
Yes. The tight-fit design requires the use of 916-18016 motor mount adapters. It will not fit with OEM LS-Series motor mounts.
What is included in the package?
One pair of exhaust headers, two premium aluminum gaskets, and two bolts. Installation instructions are not included.
Can I use this on a 2000 Camaro SS with a 5.7L LS1?
No. The part covers only 4.8L and 5.3L LS1 and LS6 engines. The 5.7L LS1 is not included in the fitment list.
What size are the primary tubes?
1-5/8 inch. The mandrel-bent tubes maintain a consistent diameter for improved exhaust flow.
Can I get private label packaging?
Yes. Private label packaging and barcode labels are available on request. Bulk cartons are also available for container orders.
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