355 factory headers or fabspeed

I'm sure you keep an eye on this forum but maybe you have not noticed there are a few more header options.

If you can wait a bit longer there supposed to be an update from both SuperSprint http://www.campionishop.com/ and Nouvalari http://www.nouvalari-usa.com/ offering headers with proper heat shields.

If you can't wait for those I would go with either the Tubi Headers or the re-build stock headers that Daniel at Ricambi http://www.ricambiamerica.com/product_info.php?products_id=343560 sells.

There is some good information being gathered on another thread I started http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=353522 that may help you with your decision.

 

I will have an updated Header ready in about 3-4 weeks maybe sooner. The final prototype is finished being fabricated and is being sent to be tested. That is all I can say for now. Once I get the OK then I will post on Fchat. If you need them sooner then go with someone you feel comfortable with and trust.
Good luck

 

I've got Fabspeed on mine. Been there for about three years and 5k miles with no issues. Just over half of those miles have been since I bought the car six months ago. Pulls like a proverbial freight train.

 

Thanks for the feedback!

Jeff

 

I did the engine out service last spring. The purpose for the service was that I had a noise from the front of the engine that I suspected was a water pump bearing. Since I was close to needing the major, and the engine has to come out for that, I may as well do a full service. Even though only 2 1/2 years since the last major, I did not want to take any chances. I bought the major service kit from Ricambi and replaced belts, seals, water pump bearing and seal, set cams to factory specs and replaced headers with Fabspeed along with a number of incidental items; O2 sensors, spark plugs, air filters, fuel filter, oil, oil filter, trans fluid, etc, etc.

For the headers, I had them coated inside and out by Fabspeed, with the bright finish, kind of aluminum or pewter in color.

My impressions:
Fit was good, no issues. Build quality very good. Coating good, can't see inside so I have no input there.
I did not measure engine bay temps before I replaced the headers, so I can't comment if the ceramic coating is actually working as claimed. I can say that the temps seem no different.
Sound; I am running Hyperflow cats and a Tubi exhaust. The consensus was that there may be a change from the sound of the factory headers to the Fabspeed product, but to be totally honest I have not been able to tell, neither has any of my friends or family. If there is a change in the sound, it has been so slight, I can't tell.
Power; the cam phase timing was so far off before the adjustment, it would be way too hard to say 100% that any increase in power could be attributed to the header replacement alone. I can say that with the timing adjustments AND the new headers combined, the upper rpm power is outstanding, comparatively speaking.

In my case, I took advantage of the fact that the engine was out, and it is very easy to replace headers while the engine is out. Also, since the factory units are going to fail, why not just replace when you get the chance?

They are a very good choice for the dollar, factory headers are way overpriced in my opinion, and are destined to fail prematurely. I know that headers can be considered a wear item much like brakes and tires on a race car, but, a 355 is not a race car...

Are they a good choice? Only time will tell...

 

I had my factory headers (no issues, just a pre-emptive move) replaced by Fabspeed so I can tell the diff immediately having had the car for 3 years.

You get more torque from the mid range, approx 4k onwards. Seat of the pants feel, not dyno proven but good enough for me. But you lose the high pitch scream at the top end which I still miss till today. Car is also quieter at idle which isn't a bad thing actually.

2.7 car with Tubi and straight pipes.

 

Glen.... any updatres on the headers for the 5.2? Kinda in the market this week

JD

 

Thanks Sal!

Jeff

 

If you are considering replacing with stock, I have a pair for sale. I just put Fabspeeds on mine, along with new cats and exhaust. The stock headers are in perfect condition, no cracks, 27k miles. PM me if interested.

 

2.7 or 5.2?

 

Sorry, 5.2 ('97, 6spd)

 

Thanks for the reply but I am a 2.7

 

Glen, how is the header project going?




Jimmy

 

I have T304 polished, Heat coated or Inconel for the 2.7 or the 5.2 Headers
Call me at 1-877-888-1600 and I can give details
Thanks

 

Thanks for the reply Glen.




Jimmy

 

Fabspeeds are great!