New JBA's

[danolan]

Just a note to let you guys know that I recently installed a set of JBA headers on my 2000 AC that I ordered from the October 2005 group buy. The installation was brutal. The information that I gleaned from searching this forum was invaluable.

Like several other successful installers, I used OEM manifold gaskets and new OEM locking nuts. I was able to break the original collector nuts loose with a generous application of Liquid Wrench beforehand so my OEM manifolds are still intact. I used the collector gaskets supplied by JBA but I applied a bead of Permatex Hi-temp RTV and let it cure before installation.

As advised, I bought a collection of 6 point sockets, 3/8" extensions, universal joints and a swivel head ratchet ahead of time and used every one of them. I also bought a set of female Torx head sockets and tightened down the studs before installing the headers. Mine were all below 23 ft lbs on both sides. Fortunately, I had had no trouble fitting the headers and did not have to grind the flange on the driver's side to clear the A/C pump as others have noted.

I did have to remove the motor mount on the driver's side to access the two nuts behind it. I was tempted to do the same on the passenger side but found that it was unnecessary. You can access the two nuts on the driver's side after installation with a box head or open end wrench.

I cranked it up after 12 grueling hours and had nary a leak. I have been taking it easy for the last couple of days until I can get back underneath to check all the nuts and in the meanwhile allowing the ECU to adjust. So far , the engine sounds good and I've been having trouble controlling my right foot.

Thanks to all who have gone before for the insightful technical advice.

[tundrafire]

The '00-'04 headers are an easy install. The '05s with the air injection tubes are really brutal.

[jkib]

The '00-'04 headers are an easy install. The '05s with the air injection tubes are really brutal.

How do the JBA headers perform on the 05? Many say you loose low end torque. Did you notice this? If so, was it a big lose? How is mid range power also. When you speak of brutal, would you mind elaborating a bit more because I'm thinking of installing a set this summer.
Thanks

[Dude Boy]

Originally Posted by danolan

Just a note to let you guys know that I recently installed a set of JBA headers on my 2000 AC that I ordered from the October 2005 group buy. The installation was brutal. The information that I gleaned from searching this forum was invaluable.

Like several other successful installers, I used OEM manifold gaskets and new OEM locking nuts. I was able to break the original collector nuts loose with a generous application of Liquid Wrench beforehand so my OEM manifolds are still intact. I used the collector gaskets supplied by JBA but I applied a bead of Permatex Hi-temp RTV and let it cure before installation.

As advised, I bought a collection of 6 point sockets, 3/8" extensions, universal joints and a swivel head ratchet ahead of time and used every one of them. I also bought a set of female Torx head sockets and tightened down the studs before installing the headers. Mine were all below 23 ft lbs on both sides. Fortunately, I had had no trouble fitting the headers and did not have to grind the flange on the driver's side to clear the A/C pump as others have noted.

I did have to remove the motor mount on the driver's side to access the two nuts behind it. I was tempted to do the same on the passenger side but found that it was unnecessary. You can access the two nuts on the driver's side after installation with a box head or open end wrench.

I cranked it up after 12 grueling hours and had nary a leak. I have been taking it easy for the last couple of days until I can get back underneath to check all the nuts and in the meanwhile allowing the ECU to adjust. So far , the engine sounds good and I've been having trouble controlling my right foot.

Thanks to all who have gone before for the insightful technical advice.

I think you are confused about the 23 ft-lbs of torque on the studs. I wouldn't have tried tightening any of them unless they backed out taking off the nuts. Did you think the OEM gaskets matched up to the JBA's OK? I didn't, so used the JBA supplied gaskets. I had to chisel off one of the collector flange nuts, but managed to do my install without raising the engine, and without removing the wheels. I didn't see any reason to use all new nuts on the flanges. You probably won't need to do much retightening since you used the metal flange gaskets, but the collectors will still need it.

[danolan]

I got the 23 ft lb specification from a previous post but I read so many I couldn't begin to find it again. The were a couple of posts cautioning to check the studs, didn't think it could hurt.

I thought the gaskets matched up well enough. Seems to me that the parts guy at Toyota asked for my VIN because there were a couple of different gaskets for the 2000 model. In any case, the metal gasket looked a whole lot more substantial to me.

I'll be putting a wrench on the collector bolts later this afternoon.

[Dude Boy]

Your figure of 23 ft-lbs is probably correct, I just think that it applies to the tightening of the nuts, and not the studs. There's a right and wrong way to install the metal gaskets too, but I would have to look it up to tell you which way is correct. Have fun with your new found power!

[DaveS]

I torqued the studs to 23 ft/lbs and the nuts to 35 ft/lbs.

[thumbster]

Originally Posted by jkib

How do the JBA headers perform on the 05? Many say you loose low end torque. Did you notice this? If so, was it a big lose? How is mid range power also.

I've got a set to install on my 05 AC - had to send the first set back due to fitment issues and bad coating. I'll let you know how they work out. I'd be extremely surprised if I loose any low end torque. We'll see

[jkib]

Thanks.
Please keep me posted.
Have you heard of JBA working on a new set fot the 05 Tundra?