Best Long Tube Headers of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Long tube headers are performance exhaust components designed to improve the efficiency of a vehicle's exhaust system. These headers are typically made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or ceramic-coated steel, and feature longer tubing than stock headers. The longer tubing allows for a smoother flow of exhaust gases, which can increase horsepower and torque, as well as improve fuel economy. Long tube headers are an ideal upgrade for those looking to improve the overall performance of their vehicle, whether it's for racing or everyday driving.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Certified Automotive Exhaust Headers for Chevy Trucks Cover #TOP 1
Certified Automotive Exhaust Headers for Chevy Trucks
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Certified Automotive LS Headers for Chevy Trucks Cover #TOP 2
Certified Automotive LS Headers for Chevy Trucks
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Generic Stainless Steel LS Swap Long Tube Header for Chevy GMC 1960-1998 Cover #TOP 3
Generic Stainless Steel LS Swap Long Tube Header for Chevy GMC 1960-1998
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Long Tube Headers

#TOP 1

Certified Automotive Exhaust Headers for Chevy Trucks

Certified Automotive Exhaust Headers for Chevy Trucks Cover
Polished Stainless Long Tube Headers for Small Block Chevy GMC 1973-1987 C10 K10 C20 K20 C30 K30 Blazer Suburban Jimmy 265 283 305 307 327 350 400 SBC Requires Header Spark Plugs Fits 2WD Lifted 4WD

The Certified Automotive Exhaust Headers are designed for a range of Chevy and GMC trucks from 1967 to 1987, fitting both 2WD and lifted 4WD models. These headers accommodate various Small Block Chevy engines, ensuring a secure fit for your vehicle. Included with the headers are essential gaskets, header bolts, and collectors, simplifying installation. An important note for installation is the recommendation to use shorter spark plugs to avoid clearance issues, enhancing your engine's performance. With a primary tube diameter of 1 5/8 inches and a collector outlet of 2 1/2 inches, these headers are engineered for optimal exhaust flow.

What We Like
Fits various truck models
Includes installation essentials
Improves engine performance
Accommodates multiple engine sizes
#TOP 2

Certified Automotive LS Headers for Chevy Trucks

Certified Automotive LS Headers for Chevy Trucks Cover
Certified Automotive Experts Long Tube Headers for LS Swaps. Fit 60-87 Chevy & GMC Trucks C10 C20 C30 2wd. Also fits 88 and up 2wd Square Body (Does not fit OBS Body Style)

The Certified LS Headers are crafted from high-quality 304 stainless steel, ensuring they are robust and resistant to corrosion. Their precision engineering features CNC-machined flanges and TIG-welded joints, providing a perfect fit that enhances performance. The mandrel-bent tubes optimize airflow, allowing your engine to achieve maximum power output, which is essential for those who want to upgrade their vehicle's performance. Designed specifically for 2wd Square Body pickups, these headers make installation easy, saving you valuable time and effort in the process.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Precision fit and performance
Improved airflow for power
Easy installation process
#TOP 3

Generic Stainless Steel LS Swap Long Tube Header for Chevy GMC 1960-1998

Generic
‎Long Tube Header 60-98
Generic Stainless Steel LS Swap Long Tube Header for Chevy GMC 1960-1998 Cover
Stainless Steel LS Swap Long Tube Header Replacement for Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra C10 C1500 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 2WD 1960-1998

The Generic LS Swap Header is designed to enhance your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra with LS series engines from 1960 to 1998. This header features a long tube design that helps improve exhaust flow, giving your engine better performance and efficiency. The polished finish not only looks great but also helps resist corrosion, keeping your header in good shape over time. Made specifically as a replacement for popular models like the Silverado and Sierra C10 and C1500, it’s a reliable upgrade that fits LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7 engines. This header makes installation easier while boosting your vehicle’s power.

What We Like
Long tube design
Polished corrosion-resistant finish
Fits multiple Chevy GMC models
Compatible with LS series engines
#TOP 4

Generic LS Swap Long Tube Headers for Chevy GMC C10 C1500 LS Series

Generic
Long Tube Headers
Generic LS Swap Long Tube Headers for Chevy GMC C10 C1500 LS Series Cover
LS Swap Long Tube Headers Replacement for Chevy GMC C10 C1500 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 1960-1998 2WD

The Generic LS Swap Headers are designed to upgrade your Chevy or GMC C10 or C1500 trucks from 1960 to 1998. These long tube headers improve exhaust flow, which helps your engine breathe better and can boost performance. Made from durable 304 stainless steel, they resist rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting use. They are built specifically for LS-based engines like LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7, making installation straightforward for those engine types. If you want to enhance your truck's power and durability, these headers provide a reliable and effective solution.

What We Like
Long tube design
304 stainless steel material
Fits multiple LS engines
Compatible with 1960-1998 Chevy GMC C10 C1500
#TOP 5

AMVirtuo 1966-1987 Chevy GMC Small Block V8 Long Tube Headers

AM-33026
AMVirtuo 1966-1987 Chevy GMC Small Block V8 Long Tube Headers Cover
AMVirtuo Long Tube Headers Compatible with 1966-1987 Chevy GMC Blazer Suburban C10 C20 C30 K10 K20 K30 Trucks 283-400 Small Block V8

The AMVirtuo Chevy GMC Headers are designed to fit 1966-1987 Chevy and GMC trucks with 283-400 small block V8 engines, including both 2WD and 4WD models. Made from high-quality 304 stainless steel, these headers resist rust and heat, so you can rely on them in tough weather and driving conditions. The headers feature thick, laser-cut flanges and precise TIG welding, which helps keep exhaust leaks at bay even during intense heat and vibrations. Installation is straightforward with all necessary mounting hardware included, though using short-thread spark plugs and heat shields is recommended to avoid clearance problems. For best results, professional installation is advised.

What We Like
Wide vehicle compatibility
Durable stainless steel material
Leak-resistant TIG welding
Complete mounting hardware
#TOP 6

BBK 16330 Long Tube Exhaust Headers for Mustang GT

BBK
16330
Factory
BBK 16330 Long Tube Exhaust Headers for Mustang GT Cover
BBK Performance 16330 1-3/4" Long Tube Full Length High Flow Performance Exhaust Headers For Mustang GT - Polished Silver Ceramic Finish

The BBK Mustang GT Headers are designed specifically for your Mustang GT, ensuring a perfect fit without any hassle. These long tube headers help improve exhaust flow, which can boost your car's performance by enhancing engine efficiency. The polished silver ceramic finish not only looks great but also provides durability and heat resistance, helping to protect the headers and maintain their appearance over time. With these headers, you get a combination of performance and style, making them a practical upgrade for Mustang enthusiasts looking to enhance their vehicle's exhaust system.

What We Like
Vehicle-specific fit
Improved exhaust flow
Durable ceramic finish
Enhanced engine performance
#TOP 7

dmanauto Longtube Exhaust Headers 1-5/8 for Chevy GMC 1988-1999 SBC 305 350 V8

0202
dmanauto Longtube Exhaust Headers 1-5/8 for Chevy GMC 1988-1999 SBC 305 350 V8 Cover
Longtube Exhaust Headers 1-5/8 for Chevy GMC 1988-1999 C1500 C2500 K1500 K2500 SBC 305 350 5.0L 5.7L V8 2WD & 4WD

The dmanauto Longtube Headers are designed specifically for Chevy and GMC trucks from 1988 to 1999 with 5.0L and 5.7L V8 engines. Featuring 1-5/8 inch primary tubes and a 2.5 inch collector, these headers help improve exhaust flow, which can boost your engine’s performance and efficiency. Made from polished 304 stainless steel, they offer durability and resistance to rust, ensuring they look good and last long. The headers include CNC machined flanges, providing a precise fit that makes installation easier and reduces leaks. With TIG welding, these headers resist cracking and wear, so you get reliable performance over time.

What We Like
Improved exhaust flow
Durable 304 stainless steel
Precise CNC machined flanges
Crack-resistant TIG welding
#TOP 8

PG POWERGO 304 Stainless Steel Exhaust Headers

PG POWERGO 304 Stainless Steel Exhaust Headers Cover
Exhaust Headers 1-5/8" x 2-1/2" 304 Stainless Steel Polished Finish for 1988-1999 C1500 C2500 K1500 K2500 Silverado Sierra

The PG POWERGO Exhaust Headers are designed to enhance your vehicle's performance, particularly at mid to high RPMs. The full-length pipe layout helps increase power, giving you a more responsive driving experience. Made from durable 16-gauge 304 stainless steel, these headers are fully mandrel bent for optimal airflow. The head flange is laser-cut from thick steel, ensuring a strong and precise fit. You'll appreciate the TIG-welded joints, which provide excellent durability against wear and tear. With a polished finish, these headers also resist rust, ensuring longevity and maintaining their sleek appearance.

What We Like
Increased power at higher RPMs
Durable stainless steel construction
Precise laser-cut head flange
TIG-welded joints for durability
Rust-resistant polished finish
#TOP 9

TMORACSIDSP C10 LS Swap Truck Long Tube Headers

28982
TMORACSIDSP C10 LS Swap Truck Long Tube Headers Cover
TMORACSIDSP C10 LS Swap Truck Long Tube Headers 1 7/8" Conversion LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 V8 6.0 6.2

The TMORACSIDSP LS Headers are designed with 1 7/8" primary tubes and a 3" outlet, which helps improve exhaust flow and boost engine performance. These headers are specifically made for LS series engine swaps, so if you're upgrading your engine, they fit perfectly. Keep in mind, they are not compatible with 4WD vehicles, so they're best suited for 2WD setups. Plus, these headers work with a variety of V8 engines like LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and others ranging from 4.8L to 6.2L, making them versatile for different builds and upgrades you might have in mind.

What We Like
1 7/8" primary tubes
3" exhaust outlet
Fits LS engine swaps
Compatible with multiple V8 engines
#TOP 10

PG POWERGO Exhaust Headers for 1966-1987 V8 C10 Series

PG POWERGO Exhaust Headers for 1966-1987 V8 C10 Series Cover
Exhaust Headers 1-1/2 x 3 in. Mild Steel Black Paint for 1966-1987 C10 C20 C30 K10 K20 K30 Suburban Blazer Jimmy | 283 305 350 396 V8

The PG POWERGO Exhaust Headers offer a full-length pipe design that helps boost your engine's power at mid to high RPM, making your driving experience more dynamic. The tubes are carefully mandrel bent from sturdy 16-gauge mild steel, ensuring smooth airflow and durability. The head flange is precisely laser-cut from thick steel plates and perfectly flattened, providing a strong and secure fit to your engine. All joints are TIG welded, which means the connections resist cracking and wear, giving you a long-lasting, reliable exhaust system. These features work together to improve your vehicle's performance and durability.

What We Like
Full-length pipe design
Mandrel bent 16-gauge steel
Laser-cut, flattened head flange
TIG welded joints
Buying Guide Image

The Right Long Tube Headers for Your Car

Long Tube Headers: What to Look For

Long tube headers are an essential part of any performance-based engine. Not only do they provide a longer exhaust stroke, they also increase exhaust flow and the engine’s overall efficiency. Whether you’re looking to boost your car’s performance or just want a louder sound, long tube headers can be a great addition to any ride. But before you buy, there are a few things to consider.

Fitment

One of the most important things to consider when choosing long tube headers is fitment. Make sure that the headers are designed for your specific make and model. It’s also important to make sure that the headers have the correct flange type for your exhaust system. If you’re not sure, consult a mechanic or ask questions of the manufacturer.

Materials

Long tube headers are typically made of mild steel, stainless steel, or titanium. Mild steel is the most cost-effective option and is the easiest to work with, but it’s not as strong or durable as stainless steel or titanium. Stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion and is more durable, but it’s also more expensive. Titanium is the strongest and most durable, but it’s also the most expensive.

Design

Long tube headers come in a variety of designs. There are shorty headers, mid-length headers, and full-length headers. Shorty headers are usually the most cost-effective, but they’re also the least efficient. Mid-length headers offer a good balance of performance and cost. Full-length headers are the most efficient, but they’re also the most expensive.

Installation

Installing long tube headers can be a time-consuming and difficult process. Before you buy, make sure that the headers come with all the necessary hardware and gaskets. If you’re not sure, consult a professional mechanic.

Cost

Long tube headers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The cost will depend on the materials, design, and fitment. When shopping around, it’s important to compare prices and get the best deal.

Conclusion

Choosing long tube headers can be a daunting task. But by considering fitment, materials, design, installation, and cost, you can be sure to find the perfect set for your ride. With a little research and patience, you can be sure to find a set that fits your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are long tube headers good for?

Long tube headers are designed to provide significant performance boosts, create an aggressive sound, and handle future power modifications. Their design creates negative pressure in the exhaust pipe, improving exhaust gas flow and reducing backflow pressure.

2. Do long tube headers increase horsepower?

Yes, long tube headers generally offer greater horsepower and torque gains compared to short headers. They are especially effective in the mid-low to mid-high RPM range, making them suitable for both race tracks and street driving.

3. Do long tube headers make a difference?

Absolutely. Long tube headers have longer and merged exhaust pipes, which reduce exhaust back pressure. This results in improved oxygen intake and a significant boost in horsepower.

4. Are long tube headers good for your car?

Long tube headers are most suitable for track cars or vehicles that operate at higher RPM ranges. However, depending on the specific design, they may require relocating or removing the catalytic converter.

5. What size headers for 500 hp?

For a street car with 500+ horsepower, headers with 2 inches or greater primary pipe diameter are recommended. Smaller pipe diameters can provide more low-to-mid-range torque.

6. Do long tube headers require a tune?

Yes, installing long tube headers requires a new or updated tune for your vehicle's engine. This is necessary to compensate for the increased airflow and the relocation of the oxygen sensors.

7. What sounds better short or long headers?

Long tube headers generally produce a louder and more aggressive sound compared to short headers. While shorty headers offer better sound than stock manifolds, equal length long tube headers provide consistent performance gains.

8. Do I need a tune if I install long tube headers?

Yes, installing long tube headers requires a new or updated tune for your vehicle's engine. This is necessary to compensate for the increased airflow and the relocation of the oxygen sensors.

Editor's Notes

During our long tube header research, we found 24 long tube header products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,965 customer reviews through our big data system to write the long tube headers list. We found that most customers choose long tube headers with an average price of $271.69.

The long tube headers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of long tube headers, including Certified Automotive Experts, AMVirtuo, BBK, dmanauto, PG POWERGO MOTORSPORT. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 46 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.