Making headers for the masses, in our opinion, is one of the hardest parts of our industry. There are so many different vehicles with different engine combinations…not to mention popular engine swap combinations. One of those companies that have a firm hold on the niche markets as well as CARB approved headers is Pertronix Performance Products brands – JBA Exhaust, Patriot Exhaust, and Doug’s Headers.
First up are Doug’s 1978-1987 GM G-Body small-block Chevy Tri Y headers. “These cars are heavy and with them you are looking for performance in the mid to lower RPM range, so we developed a true Tri Y header for this application,” said Jim Hairston. Like all Doug’s headers, this header features their ceramic finish for superior heat resistance and long-lasting looks. It utilizes a 3/8ths steel flange and 16 gauge tubing.
Talking about niche markets, this Doug’s header is designed specially for Coyote 5.0 swaps into first generation Mustangs and mid 60’s Falcons. “We are currently doing some redesign work to make this work on a broader range of Mustang II front suspension designs so we can carry one part number,” says Hairston.
“This is an actual, perfect replica header that came on the first generations of Shelby Mustangs, for the period correct guys,” says Hairston. “It’s not particularly a good performing header when compared to a true Tri Y, but it’s exactly what it looked like and a lot of enthusiasts want a period-correct header.”
But outside of the niche markets, Pertronix offers a wide range of CARB, 50 state legal headers. 'We have more EO header applications than the entire header industry combined,' says Hairston. 'These headers are actually harder to design because you cannot change the factory catalytic converter location.'