Header wrap

It is common knowledge that a cooler motor will produce more power and potentially last longer. I believe I also heard once that the more heat retained in the exhaust the more of a scavenging effect it has, therefore, more power. I know Kevineleven wrapped the pipes on his bike.

Who else out there has tried this? Was it succesful from a performance standpoint? What measures need to be taken to protect the wrap from weather once applied?

 

I am planning on wrapping the 4-1 exhaust on my 82 this winter and have done some research on it. It is my understanding that a noticeable change in performance has not been documented for XJ bikes specifically, although it does not hurt. There are coating sprays that can be purchased that help to seal the wrap and protect it from the elements. Check out summit.com and search header wraps, I found many different types, colors and kits. I am planning on buying it from a local speed shop as the costs were about equal with shipping and getting the necessary hardware to complete the installation.
If anyone else has more information I'd also like to know.
Good luck with the mods.

 

I have a roll of black header wrap if anybody is interested.

 

I'm interested...PM sent

 

Anybody have an educated guess as to how many feet would be needed to wrap a full header al the way to the start of the canisters/mufflers?

Thanks, Cheesy!

 

I responded to your PM. I think 100 ft is enough to wrap a V8. I'd guess it would take between 25 and 50 ft for a bike.

 

Replied to you as well Stinky!


I'm also curious as to a correct procedure, or little tricks, to get the best quality job. Any pointers would be greatly appreciated! In the mean while, I'll see what I can dig up.

Thanks, Cheesy!

 

Only overlap 1/4" maximum. Any more and the pipes will overheat and crumble.
Paint the pipes with the coating and cure it before you wrap them.
Use the special clamps or hose clamps to secure them at the top.
Use another clamp at the bottom to prevent unravelling.
Heat them up once good before you coat them.
Follow the directions on the can exactly as to how many coats and how to cure. It really does make a difference in how long it lasts.
I have heard that wetting the wrap prior to applying is supposed to help it lay smooth. The copper colored stuff is supposed to be the best for heat retention ( Thermotech). They also make sleeves to cover the first 12" of pipe ( where it does the most good). Keeping the exhaust gasses hot increases their velocity ( or rather prevents velocity loss ) which can increase scavenging.Don't be suprised if you have to rejet after wrapping ( if they didn't maybe that is why they didn't see an increase on our bikes).
Keep us posted.If you need supplies I have them at work @ Summit Racing.

 

Hey Tom.....Appreciate the helpfull hints!!! I went and got clamps off of E-Bay, prior to reading your post. I'll be sure to keep you posted with lots of pics. once I get at it.

Thanks Again, Cheesy!

 

i used almost all of 50' on my two max 400 headers. Painted first with rustoleum high temp and then used a torch on the paint to cure it and then wrapped them the next day...wrapping sucks, be sure to have an assistant.
Check my gallery for pics