I just ordered a pair of Silver Ceramic Coated S/S JBA Headers for my 2001 5.4L Harley-D F-150 today and I'm seeking any installation problems or success experienced.

I'm told that these shorties should be a direct replacement for the stock exhaust manifolds and connect to my stock exhaust system. They also come with locking bolts (?)

I'm also told that since the Harley F-150 already has a tuned exhaust system that I don't need to change the muffler. "It does have a nice note stock"

I also have a ATI PS1C S/C on order that is expected to be delivered the begining of March. I want to get the Headers on first be installing the S/C.

Any suggestion that could save me time or prevent future problems would be appreciated!

Buck150

 

I only have the 4.2L, but I can tell you one thing from experience:
Be sure you clean the carbon deposits off the heads (carefully) before installing the new gaskets and headers. I forgot to do this when installing mine and had an exhaust leak between the gasket and the head. Caused a very annoying ticking (and two more hours of labor to fix it). It had to be the passenger side, of course.

 

My headers came with bolts but they were not locking. I suggest Stage8. Not one problem!

I had a locking garage install mine for if I can remember, around $80. Toolk him about 3hours. Hope this helps!

 

I had mine installed by a performance shop. However I was told that once you take off the front wheels and the wheel wells it's just a matter of getting the bolts off. I would suggest you have a swivel socket .
The headers, and S/C are a great combo. BTW I didn't touch my cat back system ..

Good Luck..

 

I personally changed mine here in the driveway. Expect to spend some time trying to put these things on. I would never again do it myself. I'll pay the money to get some one to do it for me.
Unless you have a LARGE assortment of tools, the basics are a few things: gloves for the knuckles, a 13mm and 15mm stubby wrench, swivel sockets, and air tools if you have them.

Also, be prepared to say a few choice words!


I also assume that you are speaking about the equal length headers, the "normal" headers might be easier to work with.

 

Thanks Adamski, Deacon, red42L and Way2Big for the advice. I'll gather my tools and brush up on my language.

Tks Way2Big....I've check out the Stage8 locking nuts.

I plan the driveway install too. I'm expecting an all day job.

Deacon....I also read that removing the wheels and wheel well it would be fairly easy. Now I have to find out how to remove the wheel well.

Since the truck only 7 month's old and just 7000 miles hopefully I won't bust too many knuckles.

I'll post an update afterwards on my success and power gain.

 

Removal of the wheel well cover definately helped out lots (especially on the passenger side for me). Just several screws around the edge of the fender. My instructions said the install would take 6 hrs. It tool every minute. However, after doing it the first time, I removed and reinstalled the passenger side in 2 hrs (exhaust leak), and the drivers side in 1 hr (bent the oil dipstick tube when installing the first time).

 

i am thinking about getting headers in the future. i am curiouse to know how you guys know when you have a exhaust leak??? thanks for you help.

Arom

 

Hearing noise, feeling escaping exhaust, and seeing exhaust buildups.

 

Tick Tick Ticking. More noticeable when accelerating.