Like was mentioned, SS headers dramatically increase the temperature underhood. I thought I was overheating the first few days afterwards. They also discolor quickly:


Ceramic headers keep in heat, and stay shiny, they don't discolor. But, they do eventually rust and pit. Ceramic headers also cost about $200-300 more than their SS equivalents.

 

So how about what DL said about getting SS headers coated on the outside only?

I am looking at the Edelbrock headers (SS with nickel/chrome coating) because of price and they look like a good piece, but want to get them coated if need be.

 

There is no logic to coating the headers on the outside only. Jet-Hot coats them inside and out for a reason--durability.

Any increased power from ceramic coatings is marginal at best. I would defy anyone to notice the difference. However, as mentioned elsewhere, the ceramic coatings do lower underhood temperatures, which is important with longtubes because of the increased pipe surface area.

For the ultimate setup, get stainless headers, send them to Jet-Hot, then wrap them with header wrap before installing. You might even get lower underhood temps than stock with such a setup.

 

I run SS headers on my Firehawk and a SC'd Grand Prix and I had them both coated - inside and out - by AirBorne Coatings in Conneticut. Keeps underhood temps down, keeps temp up in headers=small hp gains, and keeps them looking great. I've had the coated SS (SLP) headers in my Hawk for 5 years and they still look brand new. When I install headers in the L it'll be JDM SS and I'll have them coated in and out. Hope this helps.

 

Underhood temps do matter, look at where your S/C inlet is.

Jim