Should i get aftermarket header gaskets & extensions?

**GottaHaveLS1** · 04-04-2007, 11:40 AM

I might get some pacesetter lt's and ory soon. should i use the gaskets that come with it or should i get better ones. Cuz i heard they aren't very good quality. Some kits also come with o2 extension kits, should i use those or spend $50 on aftermarket o2 extensions?

**BlackLT1Z28** · 04-04-2007, 12:11 PM

Definately get new gaskets. OE metal ones work fine. But the paper ones that come with the headers are junk.

As far as extensions, you can go the aftermarket route. Some don't recommend splicing the O2 wires, but I did that on mine and haven't had a problem. But pre-made extensions are cheap insurance.

**98formy** · 04-04-2007, 12:12 PM

I used the old gaskets. They are a MLS gasket and seal just fine. As for the kit, o2 sims would be your best bet. You still might get codes without the cats being there, or simply get the codes tuned out then you dont need either.

**GottaHaveLS1** · 04-04-2007, 01:16 PM

Originally Posted by 98formy

I used the old gaskets. They are a MLS gasket and seal just fine. As for the kit, o2 sims would be your best bet. You still might get codes without the cats being there, or simply get the codes tuned out then you dont need either.

I was talking about o2 extensions but on that note, do you think i will throw codes with no cats and o2 sims? i really can't afford tuning...

**BlackLT1Z28** · 04-04-2007, 01:42 PM

No, that's why most people go with the O2 sims, to trick the computer into thinking you're running cats. You shouldn't throw codes with O2 sims.

**edbird** · 04-04-2007, 03:02 PM

Extensions are to reach the back sensors,right?So if one were to use sims,there is no need,correct?Just checking because I may get lt's next.

**GottaHaveLS1** · 04-04-2007, 03:12 PM

Originally Posted by edbird

Extensions are to reach the back sensors,right?So if one were to use sims,there is no need,correct?Just checking because I may get lt's next.

No that is not true. When you get an aftermarket y pipe (off road or not) there will be no o2 bungs on it. The o2 extensions are so the front o2 sensors can reach the bungs that are now farther away due to the "long tube" headers.

**ss~zoso~ss** · 04-04-2007, 03:30 PM

^ that is correct

**GottaHaveLS1** · 04-04-2007, 06:24 PM

Originally Posted by BlackLT1Z28

Definately get new gaskets. OE metal ones work fine. But the paper ones that come with the headers are junk.

As far as extensions, you can go the aftermarket route. Some don't recommend splicing the O2 wires, but I did that on mine and haven't had a problem. But pre-made extensions are cheap insurance.

So you recommend OE gaskets? I saw some GM header gaskets for LS1's on some website for $11.50 i think. good deal? or do you think there are better ones? Also, i've seen those "stage 8 locking header bolts" for $37. does anyone think those are any good?

**0rion** · 04-05-2007, 09:11 PM

I just used OEM gaskets. After pulling my old ones I could've very easily just reused those but I'd already bought the replacements. Cheap from the dealer here in town.
I would strongly recommend doing either aftermarket extensions instead of splicing wires. There's just to much that can go wrong when you start cutting O2 wires.
Run sims and you shouldn't have any codes, at least not for the rear O2's
I bought stage 8 bolts but didn't use the locks. To big of a pain in the ass to get the locks on. Save your money and just use OEM bolts and retorque after a heat cycle or two.

**GottaHaveLS1** · 04-05-2007, 09:22 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

I just used OEM gaskets. After pulling my old ones I could've very easily just reused those but I'd already bought the replacements. Cheap from the dealer here in town.
I would strongly recommend doing either aftermarket extensions instead of splicing wires. There's just to much that can go wrong when you start cutting O2 wires.
Run sims and you shouldn't have any codes, at least not for the rear O2's
I bought stage 8 bolts but didn't use the locks. To big of a pain in the ass to get the locks on. Save your money and just use OEM bolts and retorque after a heat cycle or two.

Alright. Thanks for the advice man.