Hooker 2055s

[88WS-6]

I just got a nice, loud exhaust leak from my passenger-side exhaust manifold and figured I'd ask about the remedy. I have a used set of Hooker 2055 shorty headers and y-pipe combo with about 4,000 miles on it but its covered in surface rust. Estimates for media blasting and jet-hot coating are around $400-$500. My questions is if I should try and hold out to save that money or just put them on it current condition? The previous owner of the headers said they were on his car for almost 3 years so I should have some time before they really start to be compromised. Pics of the headers are below.

[WildBillyT]

Gun to my head I'd save up for a set of new headers already coated from the factory.

The Jet-Hot after the fact did not come out great when I saw it done. The surface of the headers was not smooth.

[88WS-6]

I was considering that also, but a new set of ceramic coated 2055s with y-pipe is almost $700. Either way I may need to save up a lot of money.

Then I'll want to save up for a high-flow cat and catback because what good are headers into a stock catback? Arggg.

[Tru2Chevy]

I agree with WBT. It's not the cheap option, but buying a good set of headers new from JetHot is your best bet. Sell yours as they are (or give them a quick sanding by hand and spray em with high temp paint) to help make up the price difference. And if you are planning any more engine mods, just skip the 2055s and go for the 2011s.

- Justin

[WildBillyT]

Originally Posted by 88WS-6

I was considering that also, but a new set of ceramic coated 2055s with y-pipe is almost $700. Either way I may need to save up a lot of money.

Then I'll want to save up for a high-flow cat and catback because what good are headers into a stock catback? Arggg.

Sorry man, but speaking from firsthand experience it won't turn out like brand new.

If you want a good price on a high flow cat, order a magnaflow metallic from Advance Auto. I think the closest one to us is Flemington but you can save a bundle if you order online with a coupon code and pick it up in the store.

[88WS-6]

Any guess as to how long the headers may last in their current condition?

[WildBillyT]

Originally Posted by 88WS-6

Any guess as to how long the headers may last in their current condition?

Is it a 3-season car? That can help. You can also paint and cure them which may help a bit too, although admittidly I've never had much success with header paint.

Just do not wrap them. That will accelerate the disintegration.

[88WS-6]

Originally Posted by WildBillyT

Is it a 3-season car? That can help. You can also paint and cure them which may help a bit too, although admittidly I've never had much success with header paint.

Just do not wrap them. That will accelerate the disintegration.

I try to drive it once a week so yea 3 seasons. What kind of paint? I have two 8 oz cans of Hi-Temp KBS coating but I thought I'd need the headers media blasted before I could paint them.

~Matt

[WildBillyT]

Originally Posted by 88WS-6

I try to drive it once a week so yea 3 seasons. What kind of paint? I have two 8 oz cans of Hi-Temp KBS coating but I thought I'd need the headers media blasted before I could paint them.

~Matt

Matt,

VHT's 1500* is the stuff that's worked best for me. Black only. The silver stuff burned off after a little while.

If you want, give Paul @ RPM a call and see if he can blast them for you. He's off of 206 near the Lowe's/Quick Chek

[88WS-6]

Originally Posted by Tru2Chevy

I agree with WBT. It's not the cheap option, but buying a good set of headers new from JetHot is your best bet. Sell yours as they are (or give them a quick sanding by hand and spray em with high temp paint) to help make up the price difference. And if you are planning any more engine mods, just skip the 2055s and go for the 2011s.

- Justin

What kind are the 2011s? Long tubes? I don't see those anywhere...

~Matt

[Tru2Chevy]

Yea, my fault. The 2210's is what I meant to say, and yes, they are long tubes.

- Justin

[88WS-6]

I'm going to bump this thread back up. I have these headers for sale here and have a guy interested. Before I sell, I'd figure I would put up some of the pics I took last night and see if there is any way I could use them as-is. I can't afford to even media blast them at this point.

Here's the pics, anyone think they would last a year or two in current condition?














Full album with a few more pics here

[WildBillyT]

I would say yes. They are not really bad IMO. You could use a wire brush and some sandpaper to get the rust off and then paint it with high temp paint. Should last for a bit, especially if the car is not driven in the winter with salt on the roads.

[88WS-6]

You mentioned the VHT 1500 black paint earlier in this thread. I may look into that route...

[BonzoHansen]

sandblast, this, go

[Featherburner]

Bead blast, this, win!

[BonzoHansen]

i've heard that works too. i know the MS stuff works great.

[88WS-6]

About how many cans would it take to do 2 coats on these headers and y-pipe? I am guessing 3?

[BonzoHansen]

of the spray, probably 2. napa can usually get the stuff. of the por stuff probably 1

[WildBillyT]

Originally Posted by BonzoHansen

of the spray, probably 2. napa can usually get the stuff. of the por stuff probably 1

Yep. POR may even have a prep solution to help adhesion, too.