High Performance 500 Cadillac Headers - What You Need to Know

Understanding 500 Cadillac Headers

Headers are an important engine component that help improve performance and efficiency. On a Cadillac 500 cubic inch V8 engine, upgrading to a quality set of headers can provide noticeable gains. In this article, we'll look at what 500 Cadillac headers are, why they matter for performance, and some of the best header options currently available.

What Are Headers?

Headers, also known as exhaust manifolds, are installed in place of the stock cast iron exhaust manifolds on many engines. Headers feature long tube design and are intended to allow more efficient exhaust flow out of the engine. This improves cylinder scavenging, reduces backpressure, and allows the engine to exhale faster for better performance.

Headers are generally made out of stainless steel or mild steel tubing that is mandrel bent for smooth exhaust flow. High quality headers will also feature header gaskets and hardware for a straightforward installation.

Benefits of Headers on a 500 Cadillac Engine

Upgrading the original restrictive exhaust manifolds to headers offers some key benefits on a 500 cubic inch Cadillac V8:

• Increased exhaust flow for more horsepower and torque
• Better scavenging as cylinders expel exhaust gases faster
• Reduced exhaust backpressure for efficiency gains
• Higher revving potential
• Greater top-end power
• Better engine bay aesthetics

With Cadillac 500 engines came from the factory with very limiting cast iron exhaust manifolds, there are substantial performance gains on the table from upgrading to headers. Many 500 engine builds will see power gains of 25 horsepower or more after installing headers.

Choosing the Right Headers

When shopping for a header upgrade for your 500 Cadillac V8, you'll want to consider a few factors:

• Tube diameter - Bigger is generally better for maximum flow. Look for 1 5/8 to 1 3/4 inch tubes.
• Tube length - Longer tubes improve scavenging. 25 to 30 inches is ideal.
• Tube bends - Mandrel bent tubes have smooth bends optimized for exhaust flow.
• Build quality - Thick flanges, strong welds and stainless steel resist warping and cracking.
• Coating - Ceramic and other coatings help dissipate heat and prevent warping.
• Fitment - Headers should bolt up without issues and clear steering, suspension, etc.
• Budget - Headers range from under $200 into the $1000s for custom race versions.

It's also wise to consider your engine setup and goals. Are you mildly modifying a street cruiser? Building an all-out race engine? This will help determine which header design fits best.

Best 500 Cadillac Headers

With many headers to choose from, these stand out as top options:

Speedmaster 1 3/4" Headers

Speedmaster offers carbureted or EFI headers for 500 Cadillac engines in a 1 3/4" primary tube size. They come with gaskets, bolts and reducer adapters for a hassle-free install. With mandrel bent tubes and ceramic coating, they provide great affordable performance.

Hooker 1 5/8" Competition Headers

Hooker is renowned for race-ready components, and their Competition series 500 Cadillac headers deliver. Featuring thick 1/2" flanges, bold welds, optimized 1 5/8" tube length and diameter, and a metallic ceramic coating, they can handle aggressive engine builds.

Dynatech SuperMAXX Long Tube Headers

For all-out race duty, Dynatech's SuperMAXX Long Tube Headers are hard to beat. They are designed specifically for big stroke racing engines. With massive 1 3/4" tubes extending over 30" in length, they provide incredible flow for huge power gains.

Custom Headers

For ultimate header performance, a custom set built specifically for your engine and chassis combo may be worth investing in. While pricier, they offer the best flow and fitment by being designed around your exact setup and output goals.

Installing Cadillac 500 Headers

Some key steps are involved when installing headers on a 500 Cadillac engine:

1. Raise vehicle and support securely with jack stands.
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal.
3. Remove stock exhaust manifolds and gaskets.
4. Check header fitment before final tightening.
5. Install headers using new gaskets and hardware.
6. Bolt header flanges to cylinder heads to factory torque specs.
7. Reconnect O2 sensors, remaining exhaust piping.
8. Reconnect battery, lower vehicle.
9. Start engine, check for leaks.
10. Retorque header bolts after break-in period.

Having an automotive lift makes things easier, but headers can be swapped using floor jacks and jack stands. Use high temp anti-seize on header bolts. Take time to properly position headers before fully tightening. Be sure to give gaskets time to set before re-torqueing bolts.

Maintaining Your Headers

With proper care, quality headers should provide years of performance gains and good service life. Here are some tips for longevity:

• Let engine fully warm up before aggressive driving.
• Keep bolts properly torqued.
• Check for leaks and re-torque as needed.
• Use high-temp paint to touch up flanges/tubes as needed.
• Clean headers to remove grime and oil buildup.
• Consider rewrapping/coating after several years to prevent corrosion.

Avoid letting the engine overheat, as this can quickly damage headers. Keeping them free of grime and oil helps prevent deterioration. Overall, inspecting headers and periodically re-torquing bolts is advised to get the longest service life.

500 Cadillac Headers Deliver Serious Performance

If you're building a high performance 500 cubic inch Cadillac V8, upgrading the restrictive stock exhaust manifolds to a set of optimized headers is one of the best bolts-on you can make. With their increased flow, they allow the large engine to truly breathe, resulting in substantial gains in horsepower, torque, and efficiency. From affordable cast iron headers to all-out long tube racing units, there are great options to unleash the true potential of these iconic American V8s.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of headers on a 500 Cadillac engine?

The key benefits are increased exhaust flow and reduced backpressure for more horsepower, better cylinder scavenging, higher revving, and greater top-end power. Headers allow a 500 engine to exhale faster for sizable performance gains.

What tube size should I look for in headers?

Look for tube diameters in the 1 5/8 to 1 3/4 inch range. Bigger tubes flow better. Many opt for 1 5/8 inch headers as a great compromise of flow vs cost.

What type of metal should 500 Cadillac headers be made from?

Stainless steel is best, offering strength and corrosion resistance. Mild steel headers can be more affordable but will require periodic coating and protection from the elements.

Will I need special tools or skills to install headers?

You'll need typical hand tools - wrenches, sockets, pry bar, etc. An automotive lift makes the job much easier. Header install can be done on floor jacks but is more difficult. No special skills are needed beyond moderate mechanical ability.

How often should I re-torque the header bolts?

Re-torque header bolts after the initial break-in period, usually around 500 miles. Then check and re-torque bolts whenever doing other engine service or once per year.