Edelbrock header

[meangreen98]

Wondering if anyone has any reviews or info behind the Edelbrock 4.0 header?
It looks to be discontinued now. I'm just looking to replace a cracked oem header on my 4.0 and ran across this one somewhat locally.
Made in USA and the name Edelbrock are what initially attracts me to it. i guess its made from 16 gauge steel

Edelbrock 65923

Features Include:

• Tri-Y design with 1-1/2" diameter mandrel-bent 409 stainless primary tubes for superior flow
• Extra-thick 1/2" port flange for extreme durability
• Heavy-duty collector flange: (3/8")
• Available Ti-Tech or Ceramic coated
• Bolt-on design; no cutting or welding required
• Made in the USA

my jeep being a 98 does not have the 2 piece header and I really do not want to go down the route of converting it to a 2 piece.
Would this be a any better than buying a cheap aftermarket with flex joints or would I just be throwing my money away?

 

[ohiopatriot]

The aftermarket headers are prone to crack and provide no gain in performance. Seeing as they are being discontinued that's a concern if it does crack, no availability = no warranty. Your OE manifold lasted 20 years, the header won't last 20 months. Ymmv.

 

[Jerry Bransford]

'97-99 TJ 4.0L engines came with an OE header, it's not a cast manifold like the 2.5L engine has. 97 through mid-99 were prone to cracks in the header which is caused by flexing from engine torque. The problem was fixed with the addition of flexible steel bellows in the header tubes which are positioned where the OE headers cracked. Jeep came out with a redesign in mid-99 with the flexible steel bellows added.

Like those on eBay or this one on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KA7BRHM/?tag=wranglerorg-20

Most aftermarket replacement headers with the added flexible steel bellows hold up fine.

The only major brand header I'm aware of that doesn't crack is the Revolver header from Banks like at https://www.bankspower.com/news_release/arm-your-jeep-with-a-revolver/ but it's not cheap. Avoid Borla, they are prone to cracking too. Personally I'd get one on Amazon or eBay.

 

[meangreen98]

I figured the above header with the flexible bellows would be the recommended one.
Definitely not going to spend 400 for the banks unit.

Also, am I losing power with my cracked header?
I bought the jeep this way so I don't know if it ran any better before.

 

[Stockli]

I replace the header on my XJ with the one with bellows. No noticeable difference expect it was quieter.