[carlbecker]

After 8 weeks I just received a stainless steel header. It is extremely well done and I am very pleased with the quality. I will not be able to install it until next weekend, not sure I can last that long, just like Xmas. The heat shield will not be used as it appears to be a four sided drum and an expensive one at that. Slowly I will update the install and probably a dyno run at some point. I am also working on a flywheel and would like to add fuel/spark tuning.

 

[Joe Schmoe]

Watching .....

 

[Levi]

I'd use the heatshield...I don't see why not.

 

[rcntype]

What, no pics?

Fail.

 

[OldMan]

Post Deleted

 

[OldMan]

What, no pics?

Fail.

From the ZeroExhausts website

 

[pelinors714]

that right there looks like a damn good header

 

[PRspyder]

that right there looks like a damn good header

it looks good but I bet it isn't better than the PPE

 

[OldMan]

Post Deleted

 

[qmtran]

it looks good but I bet it isn't better than the PPE

PPE is not plug and play. You need to buy header and downpipe. Apples vs oranges.

 

[carlbecker]

The PPE header is for high rpm power.
The ZeroExhaust header is for mid-range torque.

It is better!
I am not interested in power up higher, 2zz would be the choice then, I want a bit more in the mid range for my DD and reduce weight. I am sure PPE is a fine header just different. Neither is cheap and I will keep the OEM cat.

The ZE weighs in at 8lbs 5oz minus shield. I am using a O2 extension 12" from www.casperelectronics.com

I would post pics directly to the forum, I don't use photobucket etc. So no pics I guess.

 

[carlbecker]

I'd use the heatshield...I don't see why not.

The heatshield is a drum waiting to make noise, not the kind of noise I want to hear either. If I feel the need I will spend time making or modifying a/the shield. After some discussion my buddy and I don't see the need right now. Oldman is not using his either. It is not a clam shell so heat retention will not be good. I should have asked not to have it made and maybe saved a dollar or two.

 

[Joe Schmoe]

Before you install it can you please take pictures looking inside the tubes on the engine side, and inside the flange on the cat side to see the merges? Also, a shot of the cat flange itself would be nice. I want to see how it handles the gaskets. Also, what did this run you without VAT but with US shipping?

 

[carlbecker]

Both mounting surfaces are ruler flat, nothing protrudes. Head studs will locate that gasket. Down pipe I have yet to see. VAT is only EU. England is a favored trade country meaning no customs tax. My daily exchange rate came to 715 USD shipped. Close enough to the PPE header IMHO. If I ever need a cat I will go with the Magnaflow.

 

[tmhuud]

Wow . ZeroExhaust. Im jealous and IMHO it doesn't compare to the PPE.

Enjoy it!

 

[Strokr3SGE]

Looks great but damn 700$ is a lot for minimal gains.. Id buy lightweight wheels for that kind of money and get better performance for the entire vehicle

 

[carlbecker]

Wheels can be a very good investment, 10lb. Enkei would be my choice. I don't see the lightest wheels giving any improvement to torque, instead a reduction in inertia with lower unsprung weight but probably more delicate for street use. I plan on a lighter flywheel to speed up acceleration. I prefer OEM wheels. I do have a another set of 15x6.5's I will use up front when I go with 195's. The header is not cheap and I will spend more to get the most out of it. The path I have chosen may not work for anyone else, it rarely does. I am not interested in lowering,bodywork, FI or a 2zz, just a stock DD a bit better than OEM. I do find the MR2 to be a very well balanced package off the show room floor. For me any small gain is good and they begin to add up after a while.

 

[Strokr3SGE]

I like your decision on the route less traveled, I did the same with my sw20 going with a 3sge on mild cams

Ill definitely be watching your progress, any plans on going with a 6spd tranny?

 

[spydertoph]

That's a sexy header.

 

[carlbecker]

It is a pretty header but not many will see it. The up close craftsmanship is even better. ZE will supply the header without H shield at 40 pounds (British dollar) less. I guess I will test mine out before a final direction is taken. ZE does great work.

I have done a bit of reading on transmissions. I have not problems with my 5-speed and don't mind 4k rpm at 80 mph. I don't need to go that fast any way. I am interested in LSD but all this would have to wait until there is a reason to change the transaxle.