Header Install

**jharders** · 03-28-2011, 06:27 PM

I have a 1998 Firebird T/A Obviously with an LS1. Im wanting to install headers and delete the Cats. I bought a kit that should do that. http://www.jegs.com/i/BBK+Performanc.../1694/10002/-1 . any way I understand how to put in headers but it doesent look like there is enough room around my engine compartment to install them. i have done some reading though and it looks like it can be done. I was hopefully looking for a really good step by step guide on how to do it. illistrations would be great but not manidatory. any ideas.... also i was reading somewhere about O2 Simulators, and im not sure what is meant by that. I know what o2 sensors are can i just put my old ones back in? thank you.

**pajeff02** · 03-28-2011, 06:31 PM

Header install really isn't too bad on our cars. I am not familiar with the setup you purchased though. There are a few threads around with pics and details -- I'll see if I can find one and link it for you. I installed Kooks in our car and the only interference I had was on the driver side K-member. I nipped a little corner off the flange with a grinder and it went right in.

**pajeff02** · 03-28-2011, 06:34 PM

Here is one: Header Installation

Most of the technical sections have "stickys" at the top of the page that contain great technical write ups and installs. This one is located in the external engine section of the forum.

**transamtom** · 03-28-2011, 06:45 PM

Thousands of people have done it, you just need to have have the will and the tools.

**jharders** · 03-28-2011, 07:25 PM

Thanks. that is a lot of help. but im still not sure about the O2 sensor/simulator issue

**blackbird0230** · 03-28-2011, 09:29 PM

Originally Posted by jharders

Thanks. that is a lot of help. but im still not sure about the O2 sensor/simulator issue

just get the ones off maryland speed. 24" o2 extensions and yes you'll need two

**0rion** · 03-28-2011, 09:48 PM

the better plan is to get a tune and have the codes for the O2's turned off. I would also verify that part number to make sure that's correct. Not sure if I've heard of BBK making longtubes for the 4th gens. Not that they don't.....I've just always seen the shorties.

**0rion** · 03-28-2011, 09:53 PM

you should also talk to Mark at KYspeed and see what he can do for you...he has a link at the top of the page.

**sjsingle1** · 03-28-2011, 11:38 PM

http://www.ls1.com/forums/showthread.php?t=133419

gotta have those pics

**Mike0202** · 03-29-2011, 07:21 AM

Header install is a pain. Mine took 9 hours on a lift

**jrzdude** · 03-29-2011, 10:35 AM

Damn, 9 hours?^^^I thought my 5 hours on a lift was alot, haha.

My BBK's fit perfect. I have a 02, so not sure if it would fit any different, but for me they fit w/o making any mods to surrounding parts

***SMWS6TA*** · 03-29-2011, 11:07 AM

mine took about 7 hrs in my garage.

**Z28_Driver** · 03-29-2011, 02:05 PM

I just put a set of BBK longtubes in my 02. Very easy install. Only a couple problems.
Seperating the factory catback and y pipe. Just a lot of pulling and twisting.

The other problem was getting the 02 harness wiring to the new locations. By spliting and rewrapping the harness a little way I was able to make the factory harnesses work.

**bstuby** · 03-29-2011, 02:22 PM

I put pacesetter lt on my ta and didnt have a prob at all with them. Took the heat shield off, thats about it. Only prob I had was the damn y pipe. Hopefully yours doesnt end up like mine did