FMS Headers: Towing Torque Evaluation

[MikeTEC]

If you all read some of my past posts, you know my wife and I pull a travel trailer. And you know we have ceramic coated FMS headers on our 96 5.0L. We believe the headers have contributed to an average 1.0 miles per gallon increase when towing.

After a 10 month evaluation, I have come to believe there is a shift of the torque curve upwards with the FMS headers, which means a loss of practical, useable, towing torque between 2500-3000 RPMs, particulary on 7% grades, large hills, and in mountains.

The OE headers, sorry as they were with smaller ports, crude manufacturing/welding, were better for a towing application on grades and mountains. However, I do believe the engine now runs smoother, quieter and there is very noticable increase in overall power when not towing.

Happy Trails

Mike

 

[98X5.0]

Although I don't tow, I am in full agreement with you regarding the headers. There is a noticable shift in the torque delivery which does tend to soften up the bottom end. I think the higher RPM response is better, but the X spends so much time between 1,000 and 2,000 RPM that it just isn't worth it. If I had it to do over again I would probably spend my hard earned money elsewhere. I really didn't notice any mileage change, but I try to drive like I have an egg under the pedal most of the time!

KKM was the best money spent on my 5.0, but I would also like to add an Apten chip next to see what kind of improvement that makes. I guess an X charger would be the ultimate torque builder!

 

[plrs x45]

I hate hearing about you guys with the headers (LOL). I only dream of having them on my 5.0X. Please someone sell me your headers or someone make them!!

 

[MikeTEC]

Just a note: If you ever do get a set of headers, the ceramic coating, IMO, is definately worth the money if it is in your budget.

I sent mine to Jet Hot and they did a really nice job. What really was a nice surprise is how quiet it made the engine bay compared to the OE tubular headers. Mike

 

[james t]

thats because the stockers wont hold a torque reading and leak like a screen door on a submarine.

 

[98X5.0]

Mine was the other way around since my 98' had the cast iron manifolds. All I had was a little tick from the right hand side due to the fact that the front two bolts weren't even finger tight. Going from the cast iron to the tubular steel gave me lots of extra noise! Not leaks, just that distinct "header" sound that was nonexistent with the cast parts. Imagine my surprise when I fired that puppy up for the first time! Not what I expected, but I am used to it by now.

 

[MikeTEC]

You are right, James. Although I believe the ceramic coating must have some insulating qualties. Too, I used Stage 8 stainless locking bolts; costly, yes, but definately worth the money in the long run. Hope you like your headers too.

You know, James...our FMS headers just keep going up in value! Mike