Anyone have 360 DIY Fabspeed Header install

This will be my project shortly...

 

Great project. The factory headers are rather restrictive compared to aftermarket units due to the fact that they have pre-catalysts incorporated within them. Many times these high cell count catalysts start to deteriorate in their age and begin to block exhaust flow. Removing these catalysts greatly increases flow and allows the engine to breathe the way it was designed. A byproduct of the increased flow is higher decibels. IMHO...music!
If you're considering this project please feel free to contact me and I'll give you as many pointers as possible. (I'm an engineer for Fabspeed and have performed this job quite a few times.) I should have some photos to help guide you as well. [email protected]

 

Hi guys, we do not currently have any written instructions for the 360 header install however our write up for the 430 is very similar and will give you an idea of what you are getting yourselves into. If you take your time, I think most people can do this as a DIY with the proper tools.

http://www.fabspeed.com/templates/__custom/images/InstallInstructions/INSTALL%20GUIDE%20-%20Ferrari%20F430%20Sport%20Headers.pdf

 

I just did this last week (header replacement) and it's rather lengthy. Several people on the forums have said they have removed and replaced the headers from the bottom or wheelhouse.

While I felt it is possible, I thought a much cleaner method was to remove (or slide forward) the x-frame as they very comfortably slip in and out through the top.

I was re-installing OEM headers (don't ask) which I believe requires more room. I believe the aftermarket headers are much easier to put in and reach nuts etc since they have an open design.

6 hours sounds very reasonable considering what's involved. If you are taking your time or simply don't have all day, it's a few "days" of work.

If you have questions about how I got to some of the nuts closer to the front of the car, feel free to ask.

 

Chris:

Is this modification going to cause any problems when you go to have a smog test for your car?

ceb39

 

In my research, not fact nor my opinion it appears the precat serves a "cold start emission test" and that you can avoid it's necessity during smog by properly warming up the car prior to smog. Main cats once warmed up would clear all tests.

That being said, in a true cold start situation it's unclear whether or not you would pass that test.

 

Most smog tests these days only read the values or settings from the ECU via the OBDII port so hot or cold should not make any difference.
Alan

 

Technically there are no headers that are smog legal in California for the 430 or the 360. The good news is that smog techs don't know the difference between Fabspeeds and the stock headers, so there is no hang up on the visual, the pipe readings are always fine if you test the car warm, which you should always do regardless.

 

Hi Chris i'm currently in the middle of my fabspeed header install and i'm stuck on the 2 front upper nuts on the passenger side stock header. How on earth did you manage to get these out lol? Thanks buddy Steve.