To get headers/test pipes or not to get headers/testpipes
 

So I need a little help and I know this has been asked a million times. Let me make it a million + 1 times.

I am trying to debate of getting headers and testpipes or headers and HFCs. I was thinking about DC shorty headers paired with berk test pipes. I am hard on my Z. I track it often, but it's still a car i can and will drive to work. Its not my DD though.

I am looking for more tq than more hp. I am not on top end that much as I am in the low to mid area.

Any suggestions??

The only shorty headers worth the install cost are the Z1 ones. Long tube headers are better, and replace the factory cats as well.

DC sports are no good?

My only gripe with that is, in Maryland, they are iffy. Sometimes they check for cats, others they don't. I wanted the ability to just swap the cats on for smog purposes, IF they checks for cats, without having to take the entire header off

If you want to make more power with short headers, get the Z1 ones. That will allow you to run your choice of HFCs or test pipes. Skip the DC sports stuff. This isn't a Civic.

Perfect.

How do you think HFCs will handle the heat from being beat on a lot on a track?

They'll be fine unless you buy crappy ones.

money isn't what I am trying to save. I am into an expensive hobby. Gotta pay to play. What are the best HFCs?

You don't have options if you want the Z1 headers. You need theirs from what I remember. Otherwise, Fast Intentions.

Honestly, you would have a much quicker car if you skipped the headers and just did HFCs/TPs and gears. Headers are not really a weak point on these cars.

word? 4.08 gears?

You will notice a much bigger difference with gears than pretty much any bolt ons. The sweet spot for a NA 370 seems to be CAI/TP/tune/exhaust/gears. The rest of the bolt ons don't really move the needle once you figure in $/hp.

gotcha. I am not after hp as i am for tq. Which gears would keep me in my sweet spot and give me more low to mid tq?

The sweet spot on these cars is higher in the powerband. 4.10 (4.08?) gears will keep you in that part of the powerband more. You'll never really get a dramatic increase in low end torque staying NA. You might gain 10-15 ft-lbs after spending a grip getting there. Just re-gear it and rev the **** out of it.

Edit - Take a look at the Motordyne manifold as well. It'll cost you a few hp on top. but gives a noticeable boost in midrange.

You are a wealth of info. I appreciate your help. I have no plans to FI. My days of turbo/SC are over. Anything i can do to stay na is my goal. That combined with tracking it.

Why don't you get yourself some Fast Intentions Long Headers?

370Z Long Tube Headers, Fast Intentions