Installing Stainless Steel Ebay Header 1.6L 4AFE

[imop45]

Hi all, i'm new to the forum. I own a 1996 Toyota Corolla 1.6L 4AFE Automatic Base model, and live in OKC, OK.

My exhaust manifold has been cracked for a while, so i decided to replace it. After some research, i've decided to purchase these: Ebay Motors



The cheapest regular cast iron exhaust manifold was $59.98, so i went for these for $70.99 and free shipping.

Now it comes with heat wrap, but looking through these forums it seems they can cause cracking etc, so its best to do a coat of ceramic paint. (where do i go to do this, and is it expensive?) Also, what benefit is it really?)

Alright, so I've never done this before and am looking for a few tips. it seems the Prism, Celica, and Corolla have shared the same engines, and that the 4AFE and 7AFE have the same size exhaust ports so the gaskets should be compatible.

What i know i need so far:

• A couple of jacks and jack stands
• PB blaster to loosen bolts (start apply a few days before)
• Blue Locktyte
• Something to scrap clean ports
• All required sockets and a torque wrench
• A torch (if i want to clean the o2 sensor)
• Torque header/downpipe to 25lbs/ft and o2 sensor to 14lbs

So what else will i need to do this? I know i might need some studs/nuts if they are too rusted.

I'm hoping this aftermarket header won't require too much modification to work. (i read the thread on Ebay headers btw)

[Kiwi-Corolla]

There's a DIY thread in this forum which explains the process . Here's the link:

DIY Installing Header 7AFE Corolla 93 - 97

[Bitter]

you don't clean an O2 sensor with a torch... if anything mass airflow cleaner, but really if you're over 100K miles it should be replaced.

heat wrap used right on stainless is OK.

[imop45]

[QUOTE=Kiwi-Corolla;3446262]There's a DIY thread in this forum which explains the process . Here's the link:

[url]

Yes, I've printed that thread out actually

It has about 189k on it, but right now I can't afford a new O2 sensor (they range from $30-60 right?)

I'm just looking for some more detailed tips or advice for this. Problems ppl have run into, things that'll make it easier, etc. And to make sure I am very prepared to do this.

[Bitter]

You'll need a pipe to cat converter gasket, its not included as well as new nuts/bolts for that connection..and a way to grind the old rusted ones off.

[imop45]

Originally Posted by Bitter

You'll need a pipe to cat converter gasket, its not included as well as new nuts/bolts for that connection..and a way to grind the old rusted ones off.

Hmm, I found this exhaust gasket for $5. http://www.carpartswholesale.com/v5/...1496521exga94/

I take it I can't use the old one. I'll check Autozone, etc, and see how much there's is though. Thanks for the heads up!

also, does anyone know what nuts/bolts to buy?

[Bitter]

That is the correct gasket, the old one may or may not survive...mind did not.

whatever bolts/nuts fit the holes Stainless if you'll be taking it apart again.

[imop45]

alright, so I went ahead and got the gasket for $2.48 at autozone, just waiting for the header to one in.

I'm really hoping I won't have to modify the header much.

[imop45]

My part came in today, and the O2 sensor plugs into 2 of the tubular headers instead of the downpipe like stock. Does anyone think that will be a problem?

[Kiwi-Corolla]

Originally Posted by imop45

My part came in today, and the O2 sensor plugs into 2 of the tubular headers instead of the downpipe like stock. Does anyone think that will be a problem?

That'll be fine. It's not as ideal as the stock set-up, but it works

[imop45]

I'm hoping that sensing only half of my emissions won't make the ECU run my car super rich?

I'm sorry for all the questions, I just want to make sure I'm not messing anything up

thanks for all the help guys

[Bitter]

mine ran that way for several years without issue and I got the same or better gas mileage.

[badcompany87]

How did installation go? Are you going to post any pics, I'd like to see how it turned out. Thanks in advance

[imop45]

tomorrow is the big day

[imop45]

and yes, a ton of pix.