Ram 1500 Exhaust Headers: Overview Guide

The exhaust manifolds are where it all begins. The second spent exhaust fumes are evacuated from the combustion chamber, they are pushed through the primary tubes of the header and into a collector that joins it to the remainder of the exhaust system. The problem is factory manifolds can be restricting.

The primary tubes may not be wide or long enough, and the same goes for the collectors. The addition of aftermarket headers can increase this flow, which will result in more torque and horsepower as well as increase the sound volume of the exhaust itself.

Better headers aren’t all about performance either. Exhaust systems come in different materials such as stainless steel or aluminized steel. This helps protect the system from corrosion, prolonging the life of the system.

Headers are also offered in different coating and finishes to extend system life; stainless steel construction and ceramic coating are usually the configuration you’re going to find.

Stainless steel is nothing strange, but ceramic may raise an eyebrow. Ceramic coating has been around forever and is a favorite among those who like to give their engine bay a pop. The coating works as a multipurpose layer of protection. It lasts longer and is more durable than alternatives.

This means that not only will it improve the header’s life span by preventing corrosion, but it will also keep the headers looking as good as they did from day one. This does naturally raise the price, but it’s a minor expense in the long run.

Magnum and Hemi are names that turn heads in the automotive world. Letting them live on with a small war cry is not only unnatural, but may be considered blasphemy. What’s good is over the years many companies have noted this problem and have been working against it for a long time.

For your Ram 1500, you’ll have access to a few different options, so let’s dive in and discuss the differences in the offerings.

Shorty Headers: Shorty headers are designed to mount directly in place of factory Ram 1500 manifolds with little to no modifications needed. The term shorty comes from the design.

They are short, but don’t be fooled; they will still increase flow. They still come with larger primary tubes, which allow more exhaust to move through them. These are perfect for instances where you’re on a budget or may want to leave as much of the factory exhaust intact as possible.

Long Tube Headers: Long tube headers are the alternative when looking to maximize on performance. The primary tubes will run down to the oil pan and into a larger collector. They will relocate the point where the headers meet the exhaust system.

Because of this, more modifications may be required to the exhaust system, and you’re stepping into an area where you need to be mindful of state laws and regulations. Don’t be shy though; that big V8 in your Ram 1500 is going to love the way it breathes with these big tubes.

The modern generation of Ram trucks is also in line to receive this upgrade. With some of the most powerful modern Hemi engines lodged under the hood, improved performance will only make them better. With manufacturers in competition to capture this market, Ram owners can take advantage of some of the newest and perhaps most unique offerings on the market.

Shorty Headers: Shorty headers are again available to this generation of Rams. Nothing here is radically different than what had been available across other platforms. Since these headers can bolt right in place of the factory offerings and add performance, they’re a favorite to the weekend warrior.

Long Tube Headers: Long tube headers are another classic favorite we see offered to this line-up. Long tube headers are perfect for off-road trucks or any application where more power is an absolute must. They will require a little extra love when being installed, but the length of the headers combined with the enlarged primary tubes is how they help produce more torque.

Long Tube Headers With Leads: This is where things start to get interesting. Long tube headers produce more power, but the ease of installing shorties is just so nice. So what if you could have the best of both worlds? Well, if you’re the owner of a late model Ram truck you can. Aftermarket suppliers have brought long tube headers with leads to the table. These setups feature leads that bolt directly to the factory exhaust system so you won’t have to take the time to find connections that work or even fab up something yourself.

They come in a few different shapes and sizes though. Factory y-pipe leads are the type you likely dreamed up when you heard of these types of headers. They are also offered with catalytic convertors built right into the leads.

This happens to save you from wondering where you’ll put your Jonny-Law inhibitors in your new custom exhaust. These also come ready for off-roading. This brings up an interesting point. The term “Off-road use only” may appear here. What this means is they either eliminate or inhibit the use of emissions equipment.

Making modifications like these to street vehicles, such as a daily driver, is illegal. However, for specialty trucks that will be used for competition or strictly off-roading, these types of regulations are of no concern.