By replacing the restrictive stock manifolds, long tube headers allow for a freer-flowing exhaust that improves airflow into each cylinder. When paired with a proper tune, dyno-tested long tube headers for 5.7 hemi can generate gains of 20-30 horsepower or more. This article will discuss the best header brands for the 5.7L Hemi, their installation, recommended tuning, and real examples of the dramatic power boosts these systems provide to maximize the performance of this legendary V8 engine.
What are long tube headers?
Long tube headers for 5.7 hemi, as the name suggests, have unusually long primary tubes that run from each exhaust port on the engine’s cylinder head, down the sides of the engine block, and into the merged collector tubes. This allows them to clear obstacles like engine mounts more easily than shorty headers, resulting in straighter exhaust flow from each cylinder.
They are typically made from durable stainless steel or titanium for longevity. When compared to stock manifolds, long tube headers have a much less restrictive design that enhances airflow into each combustion chamber for better breathing. Their expanded tubing allows for greater velocity and volume of spent gases being pushed out of the engine.
How long tube headers work?
Long tube headers work by removing restrictions in the stock exhaust manifolds to improve airflow. The exhaust manifolds that come on vehicles from the factory are inherently limited – they have tight turns and merge the exhaust quickly, creating backpressure on the engine. Backpressure saps power by making it harder for the cylinders to effectively expel burnt gases.
By replacing these with long tube headers, which have a straighter, larger primary tubes, exhaust scavenging is greatly enhanced. This allows combustion byproducts to be cleared out of the cylinders much faster, optimizing the intake of fresh air and fuel on subsequent cycles. As a result, torque and horsepower increase substantially.
Power gains from long tube headers
The power boosts from installing long tube headers for 5.7 hemi can be significant. Removal of backpressure allows the engine to breathe easier and work more efficiently. Numerous dyno tests have shown gains of 20-30 horsepower across the rpm range are common for the 5.7L Hemi.
But the true advantage is in low-end and mid-range torque gains, where headers shine. Owners often report a noticeable difference in acceleration and pulling power. The headers help extract stored energy in the combustion gases. When paired with a proper tune to take advantage of this improved flow, some 5.7 Hemi engines have seen peak increases of over 30 horsepower and torque into the high 300s.
Popular long tube header brands for 5.7 Hemi
- Pypes Performance Exhaust –Â Known for high-quality stainless steel construction and aggressive yet smooth designs.
- Kooks Headers –Â Large selection of options, a very popular brand with strong R&D. Ceramic-coated for longevity.
- BBK Performance –Â Affordably priced while still using thick gauged tubing. Multiple flange styles are available.
- SLP Performance Products –Â Tuned specifically for Dodge vehicles, track-tested headers.
- Mopar Performance –Â Factory-style for plug-and-play fitment, small gains over stock.
- Dynatek –Â Customizable designs and modular systems allow routing changes. Titanium options.
- Speedtech Performance –Â Straight-through designs, dual exhaust options, mandrel-bent tubes.
- Pacesetter –Â A quality brand offering long-tube and shorty headers. Variety of finishes.
- BMR Performance Products –Â Made for the Aussie V8 market but fit 5.7 as well. Durable.
- ARP –Â Not headers exclusively but offer tube kits to build your own. High-grade materials.
Other modifications for synergizing gains
To fully realize the potential of long tube headers, several supporting modifications are recommended. An aftermarket high-flow air intake system is essential to deliver fresh air to the freed-up engine. An adjustable camshaft can further unleash power. A tuned cat-back or catless exhaust allows the increased airflow from the headers to safely exit the vehicle.
When upgrades like these are combined precisely through expert engine tuning, the sum becomes greater than the parts. Owners can expect synergized gains that surpass what each modification achieves individually.
Conclusion
Long tube headers are widely considered some of the best bolt-on modifications for the Dodge 5.7L Hemi engine. By reducing restrictions in the stock manifolds, they allow for markedly improved airflow into each cylinder. Top manufacturers use high-grade materials in designs that have been dyno-proven to generate satisfying boosts in pony power. Paired with proper tuning, long tubes are a sound investment for drivers seeking to maximize every ounce of performance from their Hemi-powered vehicle. More torque and horsepower are just an installation away.
