AMERICAN RACING HEADERS C5/ C6/ ZO6 INSTALL SHEET

All American Racing C5/C6/ZO6 Corvette headers install from underneath the vehicle. Do not attempt to install without proper jacking equipment and safety stands. Seek the assistance of a professional installation center. 

Prior to securely raising the vehicle disconnect the battery then proceed to remove all ignition wires and spark plugs. It’s now time to remove original exhaust hardware. Be sure to disconnect all oxygen sensor connections from main harness before lowering any part of the system. We recommend you spray WD40 on all bolts/nuts prior to removal as original hardware can break. 

Note: We recommend re-using the factory exhaust manifold to cylinder head bolts to attach headers.    

With old system removed first inspect cylinder head gasket surfaces and clean any build up around the port sealing surfaces. On C5/C6/ZO6 systems we recommend that you remove the starter. Though this isn’t always necessary, removing the starter is easy and will add additional install clearance.  

For LS7 ZO6’s only: Draining the oil is necessary from both oil pan plugs followed by removing dry sump lines from pan. Find suitable caps or wrap lines with clean plastic bag to keep oil from leaking as you’re working. After headers and starter are installed you can reattach lines to pan and continue working. 

On C6/ZO6’s there’s a main harness that runs along the chassis on the passenger side. This harness contains the starter wires as well as grounds that attach to the side of the block above the starter. Remove all grounds from the block and disconnect single hold down clip along the chassis. Gently raise the harness up as far as possible for added install clearance. 

On C5/C6/ZO6’s:  Make sure all harnesses are clear as well as the hydraulic clutch line on the driver’s side. We recommend that you remove the hold down bolt on the bell housing for the clutch line for added install clearance.  

On C5/C6/ZO6:  Install oxygen sensors on both headers and tighten. With minor coaxing both passenger and driver side headers should slide in. If the header is fighting you in any way be patient as they will go in when positioned properly.  

Note: 304 S/S tubing can shift slightly during the assembly process. When this happens the install may require loosening of motor mount nuts and a quick pry of the engine opposite the side being installed. Though this rarely occurs it does happen.   

 

 
 


                                                                
With both headers in position catch the first bolt on both sides and then take the time to re-install previously disconnected starter and harnesses.

On C6/ZO6 Only: Oxygen sensor extension harnesses are supplied. One pair (front) and one pair (rear) for C6’s and one pair (rear only) for ZO6’s. With headers loose it’s easier to connect extension harnesses to factory harness. Attach remaining header bolts but do not fully tighten. Check clearances with trans cooling lines on passenger side. Some massaging of lines may be necessary for additional clearance. 

Note: On C6’s only, minor clearancing may be needed where lip protrudes the frame adjacent to passenger side collector. The lip protrusion isn’t consistent from car to car. Clearance the lip only if necessary. 

Attach and tighten rear oxygen sensors to X-pipe. The exhaust system installs as a unit. After sliding connection pipes on to the X-pipe, raise system into position by first attaching the rear portion then connecting the ball and socket connections. Catch all hardware but do not tighten. With supplied hold down clamps remove heat shield bolts that will best keep the oxygen sensors harness wires away from the exhaust.

Note: Take your time securing the extension harnesses away from extreme heat. The connectors are the most susceptible to melting. Maintain adequate clearance. 

Begin to snug ball and socket connection but keep the X-pipe centered in the tunnel. Rotate connection pipes for best clearance and muffler alignment and tighten 4 clamps (C6/ZO6), 2 clamps/flanges (C5). Finish tightening all header bolts. Install spark plugs and wires. Connect battery.  

On LS7 ZO6’s: Replace oil.  

Before starting vehicle double check all clearances.

Please feel free to call us if you have any question (631) 608-1986 

Congrats on your purchase of American Racing Headers. Enjoy your new found power! 

Nick Filippides