Exhaust manifold: going to OEM from header

[Tooonz]

I have a 98 2.5l . When I bought it the jeep had an exhaust leak. Narrowed it down to the header had crack where the pipes come together. It’s a Banks header and from what I can tell a pretty pricey option. I had it re welded , installed it and I’ve been using the jeep for local running around. Getting a bit braver I took the turd on two highway runs. Running around 3k RPM’s at 65-70. After the second trip now the leak is back. I’m assuming the weld let go . I called Banks and they told me they don’t make the 2.5 header anymore.
So I ordered a top graded used OEM manifold before I tear it down. Anyone else go back to OEM from headers?
I mean it’s a 4 squirrel engine how much could I gain from an aftermarket header? I just want the jeep to be quiet and slightly more reliable to drive.

 

[SSTJ]

I don't think you can expect any performance gains from an aftermarket header alone. If your goal is reliability, I think OEM is the way to go.

When you put on the OEM manifold, see my notes here. There was a Technical Service Bulletin that gave different torque specs for the bolts, to avoid cracking.

 

[Tooonz]

I don't think you can expect any performance gains from an aftermarket header alone. If your goal is reliability, I think OEM is the way to go.

When you put on the OEM manifold, see my notes here. There was a Technical Service Bulletin that gave different torque specs for the bolts, to avoid cracking.

Thank you I appreciate the information. Yes relatability is my goal. This jeep had been sitting for 9 years. I’m not at ground zero yet trying to figure out all its bugs. I didn’t but it from the previous owner so I have no back end info on what was done. Once I get it stable, if I decide to keep it and upgrade then I can revisit upgrades. However I still have a hard time thinking a $500 header will yield great performance on a 2.5l mounted in a brick lol.

 

[macleanflood]

I bought Banks for my 4.0. Wish I had just bought a cheap Amazon or eBay header...I wouldn't have hesitated to cut off the old donut flange and replace it with a v band and get it ceramic coated. No warranty to contend with.

And then you do have the opportunity to install a turbo...5 psi of boost on a reasonably healthy engine is safe.

-Mac