How hard is it to install a downpipe and/or header (or GMPP manifold)?
I've installed my own ingalls, catback and intake, along with oil and the usual. I wouldn't call myself an expert, but I would like to get there. Is this something that can be done with hand tools, without a immense wealth of auto knowledge?

please no flames

 

Its just as hard as doing a catback, prob I would say a 3

 

Good question; I would like to know the same thing as well.

Do the sensors add much difficulty to the process?

 

the header is the hardest part... the dp isnt that hard at all if it matches up with the catback.. me and a friend install my dp on sunday and i had the shop do the header

 

Its easy if you have the right tools. The manifold is a little bit of a pain to get to, but the downpipe is pretty simple. The sensors come out easy, just spray a little PB Blaster on them a few minutes before you remove them.

 

I figured the DP would be the easier of the two, but I would like to change out the header as well, just seems wierd if my entire exhaust is better, but then right at the engine I have stock restriction, you know?

My guess is that the hardest part of the header install would be breaking the stock bolts loose...?

 

no the hardest part is getting the damn nuts off the studs on the DP flange without breaking the studs, make sure to get them good with wd-40/PB blaster the head bolts arent bad just akward to get to some of them.

 

If you don't have a lift, you're in for a very hard time. If you have a lift, it isn't bad. There is a schematic actually as to which bolts on the header you tighten first believe it or not....I'll try and find it. I found out by the dealership.

But yeah, the hard thing about it is trying to get to the bolts...and being fustrated when you find out it doesn't fit (my zzp) lol

And the sensors? They are the easiest part. The o2 sensors just screw in. You have to unscrew the one to the header first before you plan on removing it though because it's not long enough and will just prevent you from taking the header off. So don't try and rip your header off once you have it all unbolted.

 

cat pipe is a piece of cake. The header can require some extra skill but mostly patiences and know how. Like you need to know the tq down pattern and also need some u-joint sockets. I imagine the GMPP header would be pretty easy to install.

 

I did mine today with a friend and it's not to bad although my f-ing 02 sensor on the flex pipe was ******* siezed and got stripped so I had to buy a new one for 148.00

 

Yeah, I dont have a lift, wish I did... I've heard of people using garages where you can rent time on a lift to do your own work, but I haven't heard of or seen any around here. I guess maybe the downpipe I could do, and I could take the car in to get the header put on

And I have seen the torque sequence on here somewhere, I dont remember where right now though. Its on though

found it, this thread has the bolt pattern on it
https://www.cobaltss.net/forums/show...=manifold+bolt