Does anyone know how long does it take to replace Headers?
Done by whom? What location? Condition of car? Type of replacement? Or, is the question, "How much would a shop charge?" Then we get, which shop? Location? condition of car? Type of replacement? But I am sure that the internet experts will give you plenty of answers. If you are using Fabspeed for example, they will quote a time that they charge, bearing in mind they have several done already plus the proper tools and equipment. HTH
drivers side is a couple hrs, not a real big deal. The passenger side is PITA, the dry sump oil tank and lines are in the way and need to be moved or removed to do this job. Without a lift and prior experience doing this one, it's going to take the avg DIY a couple days and a case of beer. You don't need to remove the entire exhaust system either but it can help, most times removing the cats and moving back to the manifolds is all that is needed.
The passenger side header will take about 2.5 hours to remove -will include moving-but not removing the oil tank & removing fan if you need the extra clearence, ect. / the driver side will take about 1.25 hours to remove. To re-install will take about the same time if you are installing OE headers (less if you are installing aftermarket) however it depends on the detaiing/cleaning you want/or need done while you are in there. Factor a days labour max.
I've never seen the job done in that short of a time frame. I can only assume you're talking about starting from where the cars on the lift and the panels and wheels off and there isn't a hint of corrosion or neglect anywhere and even then that's pushing it. Aftermarket manifolds although may be missing the heat shield but historically don't line up well and require hand fitment upon install i.e. more time.
It only takes a few minutes to take off the tire, inner fender shields, loosen the oil tank mounts, ect. On the right side header, most of the time was utilized removing the 4 upper header nuts.....just due to the space limitations but I found if you use a 1/4 inch drive ratchet with a 13mm socket & 13mm hand wrench they are removed rather easily. I only used my hoist to slide under to remove the 4 lower header nuts (5 minutes max). I forgot to mention the coffee break I took as well. On the left side (after the coffee break) it went very smoothy....., again removed the tire, inner fenders ......you just need to articulate the header to slide it out......super fast.
I'm considering doing a full write up with pics on how to diagnose header failure, full re and re details, examine the OE headers with full cut away of the heat shields ......followed by detailing and reinstallation of aftermarket headers.
