Best Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram

Are you ready to upgrade your Dodge Ram 1500/2500 5.7L Hemi header? If yes, then these are the best headers you can find for certain applications. The market has a lot of different parts, and I picked out the best ones based on price and performance.

The 5 Best Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram:

1. BBK (4014) 1-5/8″ Chrome Shorty Tuned-Length Exhaust Header for Dodge Truck – the best header for 5.7 Hemi Ram
2. BBK (40140) 1-5/8″ Silver Ceramic Coated Shorty Tuned-Length Exhaust Header for Dodge Truck
3. PaceSetter 70-2211 Performance Long Tube Exhaust Header
4. Hooker 2457HKR Competition Header
5. Gibson GP311S-C Ceramic Coated Performance Header

Top-Rated Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram List:

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Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram Reviews:

1. BBK (4014) 1-5/8″ Chrome Shorty Tuned-Length Exhaust Header for Dodge Truck – the best header for 5.7 Hemi Ram

Specifications

• Style: Shorty
• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Nickel chrome
• Flange Style: Standard
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”
• Gasket included
• Direct bolt-on

Overview

These shorty style headers are a perfect fit for Dodge Ram 5.7 models from 2009 to 2018. The performance-focused layout is claimed to improve the sound as well as the exhaust flow out of the cylinders, resulting in more horsepower and torque.

While we are on the subject of sound, shorty headers are known to produce a throaty sound and these headers by BBK are no different. You are guaranteed to get a louder, throatier exhaust note post-installation. What’s more, the chrome finish on the tubes is of high quality and adds some flair under the hood.

These are made with 1-3/4″ CNC-machined mandrel tubing with 3/8 inch flanges. The tube design has a wide diameter which allows more quantity of air to pass with ease thereby increasing the power and torque output.

BBK’s chrome shorty tuned headers will fit Dodge Ram 5.7 1500 from 2009 to 2018. However, these do not include the MegaCab versions.

Q&A

• Are these direct bolt-on parts? Can I use it with other aftermarket parts?

These can be installed as direct bolt-ons and BBK claims that you can use them with OEM or aftermarket mid-section.

• If I have a Ram 2500 or 3500, will I still be able to have these installed?

These headers do not fit 2500 or 3500 Ram models because of limited clearance over the engine mounts.

Conclusions

There is a lot going for these headers and if you are a 5.7 Hemi user looking to gain some serious horsepower then these are perfect for you. At the minimum, a 15 horsepower gain and an increase of 20 ft-lbs of torque are guaranteed for your Hemi and these figures are our conservative estimates for a healthy motor.

2. BBK (40140) 1-5/8″ Silver Ceramic Coated Shorty Tuned-Length Exhaust Header for Dodge Truck

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Specifications

• Style: Shorty
• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Polished silver ceramic
• Flange Style: Standard
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”
• Gasket included
• Direct bolt-on

Overview

Here’s another recommendation from BBK, which is among the top aftermarket performance parts makers for big block motors. This particular exhaust, designed using CNC mandrel tubing, is claimed to increase the flow of gasses over the stock unit by up to 35%, which is huge.

According to many users, these ceramic coated exhausts appear shiny for a longer period than BBK’s other recommendation listed here thanks to the high-quality finish and the robotic welds.

The construction and finish on these shorty headers are solid and apart from the bottom bolts on each tube, installation is fairly easy, too. In terms of performance gains, you can expect around 15-20 horsepower gains and a much smoother in-gear response. Lastly, the sound coming out the back of your truck is going to be louder and a lot throatier than before.

Q&A

• What finish can I expect out of this? And what’s compatibility like?

BBK’s shorty tuned length exhaust headers are a bolt-on fit for all 2009 to 2018 Dodge Hemi Rams powered by the 5.7L motor. (This information is from the manufacturer, to make sure, message the seller.) As for the finish, these headers come with a polished silver ceramic finish for the whole deal.

• What else does the kit include other than the headers?

This kit includes all the necessary gaskets and hardware for a quick install.

Conclusions

A lot of users have complained about the installation requiring a bit of work but all in all, this is a great replacement shorty headers for your 5.7L Hemi. The build is solid, the welds on the tubing are clean, and most important of all, the system delivers a good sound as well as real-world performance over-restrictive OEM exhaust headers.

3. PaceSetter 70-2211 Performance Long Tube Exhaust Header

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Specifications

• Style:  Full length
• Material: Steel
• Finish: Black or metallic ceramic
• Flange Style: Standard
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”
• Gasket included
• Direct bolt-on
• 3-inch volume collector

Overview

This specific model of headers by PaceSetter, as the name suggests, has been developed for maximum gains and sound. With its one-piece design and a sleek finish, it not only looks good but is also reasonably priced.

The gunmetal style finish on this one-piece design looks the part and will add some style to your engine bay. As for the all-important performance gains, the port coordinated steel flanges lead to a positive seal over the headers and ultimately delivers an unrestricted flow into the tubes for quicker exit and maximum horsepower.

PaceSetter’s 70-2211 Performance Long Tube Exhaust Headers are compatible with Dodge Ram 5.7L Hemi from 2003 and 2006.

Q&A

• What types of finishes are available on these?

You can get these headers with the standard black paint finish. Additionally, there is an optional ARMOR metallic ceramic coating.

• Can I use header wrap with this product?

The use of header wrap is strictly not recommended because it tends to trap the moisture and is ultimately likely to deteriorate the tubing of the headers. The wrap will also void the warranty on this product.   

Conclusions

Putting a solid set of headers is one of the easiest ways to unlock the hidden potential of a 5.7 Hemi. These sleek looking headers from PaceSetter are the way to go if you’re in the market for a well-priced exhaust system that will help deliver a great sound as well as sizable improvements in real-world performance.

4. Hooker 2457HKR Competition Header

Specifications

• Style: Full-length
• Material: Steel
• Finish: Temporary non-high temperature paint
• Primary Tube Diameter: 2”
• Flange Style: Standard
• Collector Attachment: 3-bolt flange
• Collector Diameter: 3.5”
• Cylinder Head Port Shape: Round
• Primary Tube Gauge: 16-gauge
• Flange Thickness: 5/16”

Overview

The Hooker 2457HKR is an exceptional competition header and is designed to either replace stock items or mildly modify an engine.

This model is made of 16-gauge steel and comes with a 5/16” flange for extra strength, maintaining the integrity of the part while completely sealing the exhaust port.

This part is made of mandrel bent tubing engineered to provide a smooth exhaust flow, and the length of the primary tubes are designed for street performance.

This model is fit for a number of applications including:

Models: Camaro, Caprice, Impala, Bel Air, Biscayne, Nova, and Chevy II

Years: 1965-1974

Engine sizes: 6.5L/396, 7.0L/427, 6.6L/402, and 7.4L/454

The 2457HKR is designed with a long transition collector that decreases back pressure and works with all OE< power steering, power brakes, and a/c.

This kit comes with all the hardware for a smooth installation.

Q&A

• Will this model fit over oval exhaust ports?

Yes, they do fit over oval-shaped exhaust ports.

• What finishes does this kit come with?

Only matt black burn-off paint.

Conclusions

The Hooker 2457HKR competition header has a wide range of applications for a specific vehicle set. This is for car enthusiasts seeking to upgrade their Chevy’s from 1965 to 1974. Installation time is around 2 hours, and the paint is intended for sale purposes only, it will burn off after initial use, as the parts heat up.

5. Gibson GP311S-C Ceramic Coated Performance Header

Specifications

• Style: Shorty
• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Silver ceramic coated
• Flange Style: Standard
• Collector Attachment: Stock flange
• Primary Tube Gauge: 16-gauge
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”

Overview

The Gibson GP311S-C Ceramic Coated Performance Header is a 409 stainless steel component that comes with a hardy ceramic coating.

The 1.5” primary tubing diameter is paired with a 2.5” collector outlet diameter that lets your engine breathe freely and increases power.

This model is engineered to replace your OEM manifold with an easy and fast installation.

The overall performance of the #GP311S-C increases the low and mid-range horsepower and improves the torque. It also optimizes the exhaust flow and enables your engine to run at a cooler temperature, which invariably increases the engines life.

This part is a mandrel bent tube with a perfectly sealing gasket and is a shorty style stock replacement.

This kit will fit all RAM Hemi 1500 and 2500 models from 2003 to 2008, 2 and 4-wheel drive.

This kit will not void your vehicle’s warranty, which is a great advantage.

Q&A

• Are there other finishes to this product?

Yes, there are three finishes: There is a nickel chrome plated finish over 14-gauge steel delivering extended durability and longer life. A 409-L Stainless steel version with 16-gauge steel tubing and the ceramic coated 409-L stainless steel coating that gives a hi-temp polished coating

• Can I attach this directly when installing?

Yes, this model comes with OEM-style bolt-on connections, you have no welding, and it attaches to the original crossover pipe.

Conclusions

If you own a new Ram hemi or one still in its warranty life period, and you want to upgrade it without voiding the warranty, then the Gibson #GP311S-C is the one for you. The ceramic coated version will make your engine shine like a hot rod pro.

6. BBK 04-08 Dodge Ram 5.7 Hemi Shorty Tuned Length Exhaust Headers – 1-3/4 Chrome (4009)

Specifications

• Style: Shorty
• Material: Steel
• Finish: Silver ceramic coated
• Primary Tube Diameter (in): 1 3/4 in.
• Flange Style: Standard
• Collector Attachment: Stock flange
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”

Overview

This #4009 shorty header from BBK is designed to increase your horsepower with an additional 8 to 15hp.

This is a classic mandrel bent steel tubing kit with gaskets and hardware for fast installation. The chrome finish makes this an exceptional feat of engineering fit for any hot rod or pimped up the ride.

This is a bolt-on performance system that is easily installed to the existing stock exhaust system.

The BBK #4009 exhaust header is CAD designed and are fabricated with 1-3/4″ CNC mandrel bent tubing that provides unrestricted airflow. The added one-piece laser cut 3/8″ flange gives extra strength and durability.

All BBK exhaust headers undergo pressure testing to ensure leak-free performance.

The BBK #4009 shorty is an unequal length exhaust header system engineered for the 2003-16 Ram Hemi.

Q&A

• What applications does this model fit?

This is a shorty header for the 2003-2016 Ram 1500 5.7L hemi only. It does not fit the Ram 2500 models.

• How long does it take to install?

This is a moderate assembly kit, so installation will be around 2 hours.

Conclusions

The BBK 4009 shorty header is a bespoke design engineered to deliver optimum performance for a short range of applications. It is a 2-hour installation job and once in place will improve your vehicle’s performance and fits in nicely with your OEM stock products.

7. JBA (6961S) 1-7/8″ Stainless Steel 4 into 1 Primary Long Tube Exhaust Header for Dodge RAM 1500/2500/3500 2/4 WD 5.7L Truck – the best long tube headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram

Specifications

• Style: Full-length
• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Natural
• Primary Tube Diameter: 1 7/8”
• Flange Style: Standard
• Collector Attachment: 3-bolt flange
• Collector Diameter: 3”
• Collector Reducer Exit Diameter: 2.5”
• Tuned: Yes
• Primary Tube Gauge: 16-gauge
• Flange Thickness: 3/8”

Overview

The JBA 6961S is an exceptional aftermarket upgrade for any 5.7L Ram Hemi. This is a 16-gauge 409 stainless steel mandrel bent performance product.

This JBA long tube header will deliver optimized performance gains and high RPM efficiency. They are dyno tested and proven to provide maximum increase in horsepower and torque through all the RPM ranges.

The 6961S comes with a one piece 3/8” flange and their patented JBA Firecone® which is a merged collection that delivers a smooth flow performance.

This part is designed for maximum ground clearance. This means that even low cars will not drag the collector.

The 6961S is designed for standard 4-1 long tube V8 applications and has 5 oversized exhaust ports which work perfectly with ported cylinder heads.

This kit fits 4WD with IPS and not the solid axle models, and is designed for 2006-2014 Dodge RAM 1500/2500/3500 2/4 WD 5.7L

The kit comes with all the hardware and gaskets for an effortless installation.

Q&A

• Do I need to do any alterations to the factory pipes?

Yes, these parts require certain alterations to the factory pipes.

• Will this kit bolt on to stock y-pipes?

No, they are not designed for use with Y-pipe applications.

Conclusions

This is a great performance kit that will greatly improve your vehicle’s performance. They are made of a sturdy 16-gauge mandrel bent steel tubing that is standard for most aftermarket parts but does require some planning before installation.

8. Kooks Custom Headers 35002200 Stainless Steel Headers

Specifications

• Style: Full-length
• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Natural
• Primary Tube Diameter: 1 ¾”
• Flange Style: Standard
• Collector Attachment: Stock flange
• Collector Diameter: 2.5”

Overview

The Kooks #35002200 aftermarket long tube headers are constructed out of high-grade stainless steel which will fit all Y-pipe, X-pipe, and H-pipe applications, which makes this an extremely versatile model.

This kit is a mandrel bent 18-gauge T304 stainless steel smooth flow performance part with all hardware and gaskets included, as well as an oxygen sensor extension. It comes with a single piece 3/8” flange for extra strength.

The connectors come with three options, the off-road full truck use, that provides the loudest exhaust tone without reducing horsepower or torque. The street version that comes with high-flow catalytic converters that deliver a deep exhaust tone without affecting the hp or torque, and the kit that comes with Kooks ultra-high performance GREENCATS catalytic converters which are engineered for perfect performance. This particular model is designed for forced induction and naturally aspirated engines that are up to 900 hp.

This kit is fit for all 2004-2008 Dodge Ram Sport, SLT, Laramie, ST, SXT, Rumble Bee, TRX4, TRX and Hemi sport with either 4wd or 2wd.

• Can I apply this kit directly?

No, these must be used with Kooks Connection Pipes to connect them to the factory exhaust directly.

• How long will it take to install?

This kit will take around 4 hours to install, and requires mechanical expertise.

Conclusions

The Kooks #35002200 is an extremely versatile kit for the applications it works with. This model is engineered to deliver power, and it provides an excellent sound as well as high performance. The bottom line is that this is a great cat-back system well worth your investment.

Overview

This specific model of headers by PaceSetter, as the name suggests, has been developed for maximum gains and sound. With its one-piece design and a sleek finish, it not only looks good but is also reasonably priced.

The gunmetal style finish on this one-piece design looks the part and will add some style to your engine bay. As for the all-important performance gains, the port coordinated steel flanges lead to a positive seal over the headers and ultimately delivers an unrestricted flow into the tubes for quicker exit and maximum horsepower.

PaceSetter’s 70-2211 Performance Long Tube Exhaust Headers are compatible with Dodge Ram 5.7L Hemi from 2003 and 2006.

Q&A

• What types of finishes are available on these?

You can get these headers with the standard black paint finish. Additionally, there is an optional ARMOR metallic ceramic coating.

• Can I use header wrap with this product?

The use of header wrap is strictly not recommended because it tends to trap the moisture and is ultimately likely to deteriorate the tubing of the headers. The wrap will also void the warranty on this product.

Conclusions

Putting a solid set of headers is one of the easiest ways to unlock the hidden potential of a 5.7 Hemi. These sleek looking headers from PaceSetter are the way to go if you’re in the market for a well-priced exhaust system that will help deliver a great sound as well as sizable improvements in real-world performance.