"Al Reynolds" <ajr-news@bat400.com> wrote in message news:<cimqmj$o3f$1@south.jnrs.ja.net>...
> "Cryptk" <cryptk@hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:6ac0c914.0409182029.18657cd6@posting.google.c om...
> > My wife has a 1996 Honda Accord EX with the VTEC engine. The exhaust
> > manifold cracked on it. After looking at prices for stock manifolds I
> > thought it would probably just be cheaper to drop in a header. I am
> > having a hard time figuring out if there's a difference between the
> > exhaust system used on the VTEC and non-VTEC 4's used in this car.
> > Most listings / sites I've found don't differentiate. Is the manifold
> > (or header if I get one) any different between these 2 engines?
>
> My 97 Wagon has the same problem - haven't looked at replacing it
> yet as it's not that noisy. If I remember correctly, as long as the
> header you buy replaces both the manifold and the front-pipe, then
> it'll fit regardless. The EX is 4-2-1 and the LX is 4-1 I think. I assume
> the VTEC is the 4-2-1 arrangement as well.
>
> Only reason I haven't gone for a header is that you can't fit the factory
> heat-shield over it. I'll probably just shell out for the factory manifold
> when it starts getting too noisy.
>
> Al



jjjsan,

Smog test? not here.

Al,

You might have a different opinion once you start pricing them both.
Unless I go to a scrap yard, a manifold is $300+. I can get a header /
pipe / gasket for ~$100 off of ebay. Sure, nothing great, but a pipe
none the less. It's actually not the noise that's the bother, it's
going to be getting cold here soon and the problem is that some of the
exhaust leaking into the engine compartment is making it into the car
when it's on inside air. I mentioned the heat shield to my wife and
she said "I never go in there anyway"... lol..