looking for headers for 5.3

im lookin to get headers for my 2002 chevy k1500 z71 and ive noticed theres alot of brands out there but whats the best or bang for the buck???

I have pacesetter, they cost approx. $200 non-coated. I think I would go with something else though once the begin to rust. They get the job done, for the money, though.

im lookin to get headers for my 2002 chevy k1500 z71 and ive noticed theres alot of brands out there but whats the best or bang for the buck???

I know I might step on some toes here, but man, don't get shorty headers. Trust me, I know from experience. We have had a flow test done that shows the stock manifolds flow "almost" as good as the shorties. If you want the real horsepower gains, you at least need to go with a mid-length or a long tube. Summit Racing sells a set of long tube headers for our trucks made by Doug Thorley. They are $430, not much more than the shorty headers and will net you twice the gain of the shorties. You can also get the Thorleys ceramic coated for around $100 more. Trust me, you will feel a seat of the pants difference with the long tubes. I'm in no way downing anyone with shorty headers, I'm just telling you from my experiences with both of them. :smile:

gas milege change??? better worst?? and about how much power incresse did you get or do they got a hp rating?

Dont go with shortys? The only thing I have ever seen for the Z71's are shortys though.

gas milege change??? better worst?? and about how much power incresse did you get or do they got a hp rating?

Heh, heh, gas mileage really isn't my thing. Power increase is usually a good 20hp to the wheels, give or take. Mine went on the same time as the 6.0l went in, so I really can't give an exact difference.

And the thorleys will work for a Z71, as will the Arizona Speed and Marine, the other guys headers, and Dynatechs. Best bang for the buck would be the Thorleys.

coolz thanks

What about some headers I've heard about.. "The Other Guys"???

What about some headers I've heard about.. "The Other Guys"???

They're nice headers as well. They're midlength and will run you up in the $600+ range. Expensive route to take unless you can find them used somewhere.

So, Thorley's are the best bang for the buck then? I've been looking around for some for my truck but I didn't know what to get. I'm glad I didn't get any shorties now.
Oh also. How do full-length headers affect low-end? Is there any loss??