Engine Masters Season 7 Episode 112 Manifolds or Headers for Your Turbo LS?

In season 7 episode 112 of Engine Masters titled "Manifolds or Headers for Your Turbo LS?", hosts David Freiburger and Steve Dulcich delve into the age-old debate of manifolds vs headers for a turbo LS engine. The duo is joined by special guest Brian Tooley of Brian Tooley Racing, who brings along two LS engines to test out with different exhaust setups.

First up, the team tests out a turbo LS engine with a set of stock manifolds. They run several dyno tests to measure power and torque output, as well as exhaust gas temperature. The results show that the stock manifolds have certain advantages, such as better flow distribution and lower exhaust gas temperatures, but they are limited by their small size and restrictive design.

Next, the team switches out the stock manifolds for a set of headers. They install a custom set of headers with large primaries and collectors, designed for maximum flow and performance. They run more dyno tests, and the results show a significant increase in power and torque output compared to the stock manifolds. The headers also produce higher exhaust gas temperatures, but they are able to handle the extra heat without issue.

To further explore the benefits and drawbacks of each exhaust setup, the team runs a series of data comparison tests. They analyze the differences in fuel consumption, engine temperature, and oil pressure, as well as the overall driving experience. They conclude that, while headers provide a significant boost in power and performance, they also come with certain risks and limitations. Manifolds, on the other hand, offer a safer and more reliable option, but at the cost of lower performance.

Throughout the episode, the hosts and guest also provide valuable insights and tips on how to choose the right exhaust setup for your specific turbo LS engine build. They cover topics such as materials, design, sizing, and installation, and they offer practical advice on how to optimize your exhaust system for maximum power and efficiency.

Overall, "Manifolds or Headers for Your Turbo LS?" is a highly informative and entertaining episode of Engine Masters that dives deep into a crucial aspect of engine building. The hosts and guest provide expert analysis and testing, as well as practical advice and tips that will be invaluable to anyone looking to build a high-performance turbo LS engine.