Exhaust header/system question
 

Some of you know that I've sent my '81 280ZX engine to the machine shop for some needed enhancements. The engine will, hopefully, be done by end of month.
Here's what the new block/header will have:
1. New camshaft from MSA. Stage 2 camshaft at grind: 17033. Lift(In/Ex): .480/.480. Duration(In/Ex): 274/27
2. New rocker arms, lash pads for new camshaft, springs, valves, etc, etc.
3. Block will be sporting oversized pistons .40
4. And a nice wash and shave.

Now, with this in mind here come my two questions:
1. Since my goal is to increase performance, will a new exhaust header be the right way to go or will the stock header will do fine?
2. If a new exhaust header is the way to go, can you guys recommend a brand/model? Also, will I need to change the entire exhaust system (pipes, catalytic, etc) if I get new headers or will the stock pipes work with such new exhaust header?

I found some exhaust headers in Black Dragon's catalog; they have the Monza exhaust system for about $260.00. I think MSA also carries exhaust headers for almost about the same, but I'd like to get some suggestions from some of you.

Thanks again.

after market header will ALWAYS run more Hp than a stock exhaust manifold.. i say go with MSA header... or pacesetter...

We have a sticky that explains all this.... https://www.zdriver.com/forums/240z-280zxt-s30-s130-tech-tips-275/headers-explained-part-1-a-17672/

Yup, I read the sticky.
But was looking for advise on brand/model and things that I would need to buy after I get the exhaust headers. I'm sure it's just not as easy as buying and installing the exhaust headers.

https://www.headersbyed.com/ that guy will custom make headers, it sounds like you have plans, so if you want the exact stuff, us him. if ya just want a little gain use the 6-1 header if you can, then the msa 321 header, the flange on mine doesnt fit great tho.

Ya the flange on mine is the same. My head just got finished with porting and polishing so I had the machine shop check for plane straightness so I don't blow out any more gaskets. That and I gotta remember not to overtorque the damn thing on.

That's exactly what I'm trying to avoid; that's why I was asking if one brand/model has a better fit to the stock exhaust pipes, etc.

I'm looking at MSA and the one in Black Dragon catalog, but I don't know if both are good fits or is there some tweaking needed for both?

the msa one comes with a stock flange, so a cat can be hooked up, the pacesetter, which my other engine has, fits better, but has a no flange for the cat, so one must be added, or clamped on stlye cat. either header, i changed to a 2.5" downpipe, i think they come with a 2" or 2.25".

Here's something after I called MSA.

They have the 'regular' exhaust header, which goes for like $200, and also one that has a ceramic coating (supposedly keeps it cool and helps with air flow - according the sales guy) that goes for $300.00.

Just want to know if the additional 100 bucks are worth the investment or not.

Lots of good info on the internet about headers...

Ceramic coating will keep the temp down a lil in the engine bay, but will also help prolong the header life. A regular steel header will eventually corode & leak... but an SS or ceramic header will last longer.

Here's some web pages I just googled about headers for you:

http://www.performancecoatings.com/benefitdata.htm

http://www.hpcoatings.com/products/heat.aspx

http://www.engineceramics.com/coating_exhaust.htm

apart from all the header talk .. Look at you engine as being a large air pump .. what you just did with cam ( did you do some porting aswel ? what compression are you running ? )

Anyhow you increased the engine Inhale capacity .. but with a stock exhaust .. it has nowhere to go ... or not enough .. Balance is key .. what comes in must flow out . so i say yea to headers and s'5" exhaust at least !