Header vs. Exhaust manifold Question

[piratepress]

I planned on getting a hotshot header in anticipation of my turbo but I noticed most turbocharged Saturns are eschewing headers for a special exhaust manifold. I noticed the One-Lap Saturn Turbo has aftermarket headers but other users on this board are using exhaust manifolds. Can anyone tell me the pros and cons and what to use in anticipation of getting a turbo. TIA!

[wolfman]

Essentially the exhaust side turbine of a turbo charger is a restriction to the flow of exhaust gases. This results in two things happening when a turbo charger is installed..
1. Exhaust back pressure increases up stream (engine side) of the turbo.
2. Exhaust manifold temperatures increase.

Generally an effort to minimize these two effects is made by utilizing an exhaust mainfold/header system specifically designed for the application, which works to maximize exhaust flow and velocity through the turbo. Bottom line is, either one can be used...you are however WAY better off using one specifically designed for the both the turbo charger used and the engine it's on. That having been said, there is no point in purchasing a header now only to replace it again when you get the turbo. Save your money, buy the turbo set up as a kit with an included header/manifold designed for the car and the turbo.. I have heard (for what's it's worth) that twisttecs newest kit is outstanding.

[John S]

It seems that you are asking this question in an odd way. If you get a header, you would have to take it off and Replace it once you got the turbo. The exhaust manifold has to plumb right into the turbo housing. A HotShot header wont do that for you.

John S, Rosamond CA