Looks like a knock-off Pacesetter header.
I have a Pacesetter and I haven't had any problems with it, also running Magnaflow cat, everything is 2.5" except for downpipe which is 2.25". I haven't ever had any problems with O2 sensors at all, except for not having the downstream sensor right now.
You might want to check classifieds for a used header, there is usually at least one sitting for sale around here...
I looked around for a used header for a few months before just buying a new Pacesetter. They're only $160 shipped for the 2200 and it's nice knowing you'll get everything you need. You shouldn't have any problems hooking up the O2 sensors.
As stated above, I've got a Magnaflow cat and I've only got a PO420 code for the rear O2 sensor which could be taken care of with an O2 sim.
Magnaflow cats are known for breaking up very early in life... they are garbage... Magnaflow in general is just garbage all the way around... The cobalt SS Supercharged (LSJ) Stock muffler has been dyno proven to flow the exact same as any magnaflow catback/muffler setup without the fart can noise that magnaflow is all about.
As for a good high flow cat
http://performance-curve.com/thunderbolt-spincat.aspx
they are like 40-50 bucks --- its like the cheapest high flow cat you can buy.
Depending on how you want to build your car. Pacesetter style headers are good for a mild build... If you plan to build the motor to make some power, i'd suggest a Ron's header.
For the record, my Magnaflow cat is still holding up, no signs of blockage/breaking/etc and it has had a rough life on my car to say the least. That thunderbolt looks like a good deal if mine does break up though.
I plan on building it probably within the ear if all goes right... and yes im all about doing it right the 1st time with real parts, or i wont do it at all. So pacesetteror ron ill def. go with, last question, with that thunderbolt cat, it looks prett short so im guessing yall had to add a bit of pipe??
Thanks alot for the input guys, much appreciated.
You'll probably have to add pipe, yes, you'll also want to add flanges to it to make it removable, you'll already be having to weld/modify/add pieces to make the downpipe from your header connect to your exhaust system anyway. this is something you might want done at an exhaust shop, downpipes and other connections like that need to be aligned and welded correctly, its much better done at a shop vs doing it yourself at home.
I see. alright, thank you!
yeah... You always have to modify your piping when you do any exhaust mod... im currently running a Ron header (which is a long tube header that terminates about under my shifter), which runs to flex pipe, and then runs to my thunder bolt cat. Behind the cat, there is a Y pipe, the Y runs to my cutout and terminates, and the other side reduces to 2.5" piping, where i have Atomic piping running back to my LSJ (Cobalt SS) Muffler.
Needless to say... Lots of welding and flanges are involved from front to back... I recommend getting thick stainless flanges and metal gaskets, they will hold up alot better than the cheap stuff.
Okay, great advice man! Very much appreciated!!
I just stumbled onto this topic... I'm definitely looking into one of those cats now. thanks man!
