OBX header install

[96ex5.0]

OK so I got my OBX headers on my biggest fight was with the rest of the exhaust but nothing a heel bar couldn't help with. Driver side went in no problems passenger side to more effort but I did not have to pull the engine mount. Now remember I'm an auto tech so I have a box full of tools that many won't have. My biggest recommendation is on the back two on passenger side is to get the front bolts in before you do any other bolts. I really think one thing that helped me was my 2" body lift.

There is no clearance issues or grinding on head everything fit with no contact.

I can definitely feel a difference and see it in acceleration.

 

[Centaurus5.0]

Nice! Thanks for posting.

I've heard but not checked that later year 5.0l explorer engines are mounted a bit more rearward than the 96-97's. Do you think the #7 primary would contact the firewall if it was set back 1/2-3/4"? Sufficient clearance between the AC box?

**Edit**

Doh! Just noticed you have a 2" lift (dont know how I missed that). I can see how that would definately make the install easier.

I'm happy to hear they worked out for you.

 

[96ex5.0]

Nice! Thanks for posting.

I've heard but not checked that later year 5.0l explorer engines are mounted a bit more rearward than the 96-97's. Do you think the #7 primary would contact the firewall if it was set back 1/2-3/4"? Sufficient clearance between the AC box?

**Edit**

Doh! Just noticed you have a 2" lift (dont know how I missed that). I can see how that would definately make the install easier.

I'm happy to hear they worked out for you.

Nah I think everything would be fine 2" lift or not, I just think it helped on the install.

 

[Centaurus5.0]

OK.

Thanks for the follow up on them.

 

[96ex5.0]

Yeah no problem, I know a few have gotten but never said how they fit. I was quite pleased with the way the fit and no grinding on heads or anything.

 

[Centaurus5.0]

Grinding is only needed when using certain aftermarket aluminum heads. fyi

 

[96ex5.0]

Ahhh OK thanks for the info, I can say these fit fine I'll get pics of the booster and all. I think even without the lift it wouldn't hit.

 

[Centaurus5.0]

Coo

If they did fix the fitment and egr issues, then they would be deal for $300-$400.

When I see someone selling already PITA to install, uncoated, stolen design Chicom made headers that knowingly don't fit correctly for $500+, my righteous indignation can get the better of me.

 

[96ex5.0]

Coo

If they did fix the fitment and egr issues, then they would be deal for $300-$400.

When I see someone selling already PITA to install, uncoated, stolen design Chicom made headers that knowingly don't fit correctly for $500+, my righteous indignation can get the better of me.

Oh I understand, but I decided WTF and went for it. My real and only complaint on them is they could have cleaned up the inside of the tubes at the flange on the head side a bit more but was still way better than stock and took a few to do myself. But they did bolt up fine and everything sealed good.

 

[boominXplorer]

Thanks for being the first one to show pics of them installed. I'm with Cent though, it bugs me they are a stolen copy but someone has to do it. My only concern is long-term quality.

 

[96ex5.0]

Thanks for being the first one to show pics of them installed. I'm with Cent though, it bugs me they are a stolen copy but someone has to do it. My only concern is long-term quality.

Yeah I can understand that, I just couldn't justify $700+ and 6+ months to get the them. So I guess I'll see how long they last, surely it will be better than stock.

 

[98 MERC]

What about gaskets ? Can you tell us what you used ? I herd the ones that come in the kit are no good and don't last long.Also what gasket did you use for the 2 piece side ?


Also are you going to protect your wires with some sleeves ?

 

[96ex5.0]

What about gaskets ? Can you tell us what you used ? I herd the ones that come in the kit are no good and don't last long.Also what gasket did you use for the 2 piece side ?


Also are you going to protect your wires with some sleeves ?

I just got header gaskets from parts store, I used there gasket for the two pice. Non of my wires are close or touch but I am running a set of make your own. I went carb with GM HEI style distributor.

 

[MDmounty]

I have had mine in for a little over 2 years and haven't had any problems with them

 

[MuscleJunkie]

Hi everyone. I'm getting ready to "finally" install my OBX headers on Big White this week. What is the best gasket (I'm reading the ones included by OBX are not the best) to use between the block and headers? I've read some people have had leak problems by using substandard gaskets and I'd rather spend a bit more and not have to worry about it for a long time to come.

 

[96ex5.0]

I ordered a set of header gaskets from the parts store. Make sure they match the port size.

 

[MuscleJunkie]

Having an issue with passengers side hitting on motor mount. Any advice??

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums...ation-running-into-issue.460167/#post-3610865

 

[96ex5.0]

Odd mine didn't hit at all

 

[96ex5.0]

 

[MuscleJunkie]

Replied in the thread. We figured it out.