Having excess gases in your engine will slow it down. Hence we use headers, they help the engine release excess gases from the cylinders, and engine performance is greatly improved.
Long tube headers, in particular, because of their design, produce an aggressive sound while increasing the power and performance of the engine considerably.
This is because the design creates a negative pressure in the pipe, backflow pressure is reduced, and exhaust gases are easily pulled out.
Buying a long tube header seems interesting, no?
However, remember to do your research properly and choose the best header according to your budget and its quality, which is why I have compiled a list of the best long tube headers for 5.3 Silverado for you.
Table of Contents
- 1 7 Top Rated 5.3 Silverado Long Tube Headers Comparisons
- 1.1 1. Pacesetter 72C2265 Exhaust Header
- 1.2 2. Gibson GP129S Stainless Steel Performance Header
- 1.3 3. BETTERCLOUD Stainless Headers
- 1.4 4. Hedman 69230 Chevy Pu Small Block 4Wd
- 1.5 5. Patriot H8059 Exhaust Header
- 1.6 6. Pacesetter 70-2266 Long Tube Header
- 1.7 7. Kooks Custom Headers 28602401 Stainless Steel Headers
- 2 Frequently Asked Questions
- 3 Conclusion
7 Top Rated 5.3 Silverado Long Tube Headers Comparisons
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | EDITOR'S RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
TOP PICK  | 9.7 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 9.5 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
BEST BUDGET  | 9.1 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.8 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.6 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8.2 | CHECK ON AMAZON | |
 | 8 | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Pacesetter 72C2265 Exhaust Header
My number one recommendation for your 5.3 Silverado today is the Pacesetter 72C2265 Exhaust Header.
It improves the engine’s sound and performance to a great extent, and according to customer feedback, is a great product.
This metallic header does not peel off or discolor, which usually is the case when using black coat paints or chrome finishing.
This is because a high-temperature curing process is used to spray Pacesetter’s Armor Coat, which has a three-year guarantee, the 2000-degree metallic ceramic coating.
Their coating is rust-free and resistant to corrosion, and it also can be easily cleaned. The header is CNC machined, containing port-matched thick steel flanges.
These reduce any leakage or unrestricted flow going to the primary tubes. Slip fit collectors in this set give you three inches of space.
The CNC machined flanges are also extra thick, 3/8 inches to be exact.
The advantage to this is better airflow, and the thicker they are, the better the flow is, and therefore the better the performance.
However, being thick could be a problem, making the product heavier and could weigh down your engine, but that is not the case here. The header weighs only 32 pounds.
These headers are very durable due to the 16-gauge carbon steel material used to make them, making them last you longer.
Mandrel-bent tubing inside it also helps the exhaust gases flow properly; optimization of the tube lengths also helps the engine perform high performance.
This is also ensured as the tubes are connected to the collector in a proper firing way.
Furthermore, the installation process is fairly easy due to it involving only one piece. No welding or fabrication is required for installation, and you can easily do it with basic skills.
Therefore, you won’t need any professional help and can do it at home by yourself. Being 109 cm long, they will perfectly fit your Silverado’s engine.
- The coating does not come off
- CNC machining
- Durable
- Mandrel-bent tubing
- Easy installation process
- It cannot be sold in New York and California
- Clamps are not as good as expected
This product has received the best feedback in terms of performance and quality. Therefore I would recommend it as the best one on my list today.
2. Gibson GP129S Stainless Steel Performance Header
My second most recommended product for your 5.3 Silverado is the Gibson GP 129S Steel Performance Header.
Weighing 17.3 pounds, the header is light, will not weigh down your engine, making them easier to install.
The headers also do not need to be welded as they will work with the current OEM connections of the engine.
A laser machine is used to cut the pot flanges included, and this technology will avoid any leakage or warping.
The 16-gauge stainless steel aids in maximum airflow, keeping your engine breathable and controlling temperature.
Dyno tuning ensures better and higher torque and horsepower, considerably so at moderate and low range RPMs.
It is legal to use in 50 states. They are also easy to install, as they’re made to easily replace the factory headers; you can attach them using bolts.
The kit also comes with all the necessary hardware, so you don’t have to purchase any for the installation. The set of parts meets EPA and carbohydrate requirements.
As the ability to remove exhaust gases properly is improved with these headers, this means your engine will be cleaner, also making its product last longer.
Being made of stainless steel makes the product more durable, preventing corrosion or rusting while also making it last as long as possible.
It can be used in both raised and lowered vehicles and can be driven on streets and tracks. The warranty of your header will also not be affected because of using it.
There will be no peel-off on the surface, as all the finishing of the coating is protected. It also meets all the US environmental standards.
Another problem is that there is only one option available for coating, the black coat, so no choice.
- 16-gauge stainless steel
- Dyno tuned
- Legal in 50 states
- Meets EPA requirements
- Meets environmental standards
- Expensive
- It only comes in black coating
This product is built to help push out exhaust gases, improving performance greatly without affecting the factory warranty of your engine.
If it is affordable for you, this is also a highly popular product worth the purchase.
3. BETTERCLOUD Stainless Headers
Another great product to buy, the BETTERCLOUD Stainless Headers are another lightweight, durable header for your engine.
The T304 stainless steel construction ensures maximum airflow while keeping it cool and performing well.
It is legal to use in all states, so you know you can use it wherever you wish after the purchase.
The flanges have CNC machining; these MIG and TIG flanges are welded, creating strong connections which help them last as long as possible.
The stainless steel material avoids any rusting or corrosion, keeping it looking fresh for as long as possible.
These are quite lightweight; therefore, handling is easy during installation, and all the hardware is included in the packaging, so no need to buy any.
No O2 sensors are required for the header to work, and the outlet size is huge. The head is 7/16 inches thick, while the tube is 1.75 inches.
Weighing only 16.12 pounds, these will not weigh down the engine. Not only this, but the mileage will also be improved after installing them.
This product will prevent any leakage from occurring, another important thing to look out for.
The build quality is fantastic, and the headers are very strong because all the materials used in the construction being highly strong.
It can fit several vehicles but is best for the Chevy Silverado.
Since I am concerned with only the Silverado here, that is not a problem. Boosting the engine up leads to high increases in horsepower.
As the product hasn’t been discontinued yet, you can still benefit from the warranty and customer service.
All of the parts are polished, therefore keeping the item looking good over time as well.
In addition, for the car’s shaft to be cleared, you need to heat the header. Also, the compatibility is only for models up to 2006, so if your Silverado is newer, it’s not for you.
- T304 stainless steel construction
- CNC machining
- Lightweight
- Improves mileage and horsepower
- Strong
- Needs professional help to install
- The header needs to be heated up to clear the shaft
- For models up to 2006
These headers have also received a lot of positive feedback and is widely purchased and recommended by users; you should check it out.
4. Hedman 69230 Chevy Pu Small Block 4Wd
The Hedman 69230 Chevy Pu Small Block 4WD is an uncoated standard duty header.
This is one of the more affordable products in the market, which, to say, is without any compromise on its quality and performance.
It comes with all the gaskets, seals, and hardware, so you won’t have much problems during the installation process.
It uses the highest quality materials, making it very strong. In addition, these materials ensure durability, so they will last you long enough.
The construction is computerized with high precision. The welds are very strong and also leakproof, and the product is also hand-tested.
Hedman headers have a reputation as one the most preferred brand among racers/race car engine builders.
Therefore you should know their products can be trusted and deliver the highest performance and meet your expectations.
Speaking of reputation, these headers are reputable in giving high boosts in power. Even if you’re not a racer, buying it will rarely ever let you down.
Using this set will also ensure fuel economy, which is a plus.
Also, increasing horsepower, be ensured that your product will always be free from any cracks in the welds and tubes or any other damage when it comes.
The tube size is 15/8, and a Tubular Exhaust Manifold system is included. The product meets all environmental standards, causing minimal pollution.
It is A/C compatible, and the total weight is 18 kg.
In addition, you have the freedom to choose the coating. You can either buy it uncoated, in polished HTC thermal ceramic coated finishing, or in Black Maxx, whichever you prefer.
The headers are also designed to fit the engine perfectly unless you’ve made any internal changes, causing size differences.
Because the paint is only designed to protect it for a short time, specifically only till during shipping, it will not last and will not be able to stand the high heat inside the engine caused due to anything.
Therefore, you should get this coating removed and get a more heat-resistant coating instead, which you might find an unnecessary hassle.
- Affordable
- Strong and durable
- Fuel economy
- Increased horsepower
- Meets environmental standards
- Coating of the painted versions cannot withstand heat
The Hedman 69230 header is not very expensive. Considering the high performance, it proves to give a pretty high value for the cost. So if you’re on a budget, you know what to do.
5. Patriot H8059 Exhaust Header
Another affordable but high-quality exhaust is the Patriot H8059 Exhaust Header. This is an eco-friendly exhaust that you can use without needing to change your current system.
About the coating, you have the options to have it done according to your liking; you can either buy the product uncoated, coat it however you want, or ask the manufacturer to chrome finish it for you.
The coating is scratch-free and resistant to any sort of rusting or corrosion. These headers are 18-gauge, making them very durable long-lasting.
The presence of collector reducers allows the exhaust gases to flow freely within the chambers, improving airflow.
This kit includes necessary hardware and gaskets, and bolts to help with easy installation; you won’t have to buy extra stuff.
The ceramic coating will keep the temperature inside the engine low. This is a plus for the warmer days when your engine is prone to heating and therefore decreased performance.
Therefore I would highly recommend getting the ceramic coating done. This is also a good option if you’re looking for headers that are more environmentally friendly.
The way the exhaust performs ensures the removal of exhaust gases in the most efficient way possible.
Machining technology used to create this product means the flanges are thick and free from any form of leakage in your engine.
The exhaust weighs only 12 pounds and is very lightweight for your engine, and therefore it will not cause unnecessary weighing down of your vehicle.
It comes with a year limited warranty. The tube diameter is 15/8, whereas the collector diameter is 2.5.
- Affordable
- Ecofriendly
- Coating options available
- No rusting or corrosion
- 18-gauge tubing
- Not suitable for the small block engines
Buying this will not weigh your pockets down, which proves that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to have your engine performing better; even the cheaper options are high in performance.
6. Pacesetter 70-2266 Long Tube Header
Made using the highest quality materials, these 3.8 inch flanges are thick, and CNC machined. The metal used is high strength.
The product contains 16-gauge mild steel tubing and comes with a three-year warranty; this is longer than that of a lot of other headers for the Silverado.
So if you’re looking forward to buying something that will last you in the long term without needing to be replaced, then this Pacesetter 70-2266 Long Tube Header is the one.
Not to mention the great customer feedback about this product.
The product comes with all the necessary hardware, fasteners, and gaskets for the installation process, along with all the instructions.
It is also easy to install, so you won’t have to go to a professional for help and spend extra money, unlike with some other headers.
It is made to deliver maximum performance, for example, considering the 16-gauge tubing.
The one-piece design of this product, along with mandrel-bent tubing, helps to push the air out sequentially, resulting in high-quality airflow, keeping your engine running smoothly.
Considering the header’s look, the product has a black glossy finish, making the engine look classy instead of having everything in the engine looking the same.
It also comes with a 3-inch volume collector and has a one-piece build making the product easier to handle.
The carbon steel material makes the header very durable and strong, resistant to any shock, and does not rust.
I have to mention that carbon steel is also an environmentally friendly material as it can be easily recycled, so you’re doing the environment a favor.
Moreover, there may be some Silverado models that it might not fit, so ensure whether it will fit your engine or not before buying it.
- CNC machined
- 16-gauge mild steel tubing
- Easy to install
- Black glossy finish
- Strong and durable
- It is not legal in New York and California
- It does not fit all Silverado models
The high-quality materials and technology make this product worth the purchase, especially considering that the warranty is longer than that of many other ones.
7. Kooks Custom Headers 28602401 Stainless Steel Headers
The last product on my list today is the Kooks Custom Headers 28602401.
This header is 17/8 inches and 3 inches in diameter. The T304 stainless steel build makes it highly durable and resistant.
The collectors have scavenger pipes, making the system efficient overall. The 18-gauge steel makes the system last longer. The header is paired with a Kooks Y-pipe.
When used with a Kooks Y-pipe, the product’s performance is improved. It is also crack resistant, so you won’t have to buy a new one due to any unnecessary cracks appearing.
The precision machining makes the sir flow as efficient as possible, especially because the header tries to keep minimal engine temperatures, playing its part in avoiding overheating.
The 3/8 flanges seal the engine block perfectly, and the ports are designed to keep the system working efficiently.
All the hardware and gaskets for the installation are included in the packaging. Therefore, you won’t have to use others or go through the unnecessary hassle of buying new ones.
The installation process is easy and can be done by oneself at home. The header will last you a few years without any cracks or issues.
Moreover, the Kooks Y-pipes comes in three versions, one for street use, with a loud exhaust note and no horsepower loss, one for off-road, on-track use with an aggressive sound, and no horsepower loss with high flow catalytic converters, and another version with ultra-high performance GREENCATS catalytic convertors.
- Durable and resistant
- Crack-resistant
- Avoids overheating
- Hardware included in the packaging
- Can be paired with Kooks Y-pipe for maximum performance
- Less customer feedback
When paired with the Y pipes, you can achieve the kind of performance you’re looking for, therefore making this header another great one on my list today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Horsepower Increased With Long Tube Headers?
Yes. The long pipe design affects the backpressure in the exhaust in a way that helps increase horsepower.
Lower exhaust backpressure is obtained with the long tube header of the right length, and the power is increased.
With exhaust gases being removed efficiently, the engine runs cleaner and smoother.
Q2. Can Long Tube Headers Damage My Engine?
No, they do not damage the engine. Instead, they will help your engine perform at its maximum level.
Q3. What Is The Horsepower Increase With Long Tube Headers?
Usually, the increase in horsepower is about 15-20 if you go for long tube headers.
Conclusion
Long tube headers are a great way of improving the horsepower of your Chevy Silverado without having it heat your engine.
When buying a new one, just be sure that it is durable, has good airflow, is suitable for use at high temperatures, and keeps the temperature of your engine low.
No matter how old your engine is, the long tube headers will always help. Therefore, I have this list of the best long tube headers for 5.3 Silverado available for purchase in the US.
These are the ones with the most positive feedback and the highest quality, and I ensure if you buy any one of these after proper research, you will not regret it.
However, the best one out of all of these is undoubtedly the Pacesetter 72C2265 Exhaust Header, considering its high-quality performance, customer feedback, and popularity.
I am Tahir Azam, and I have been writing amazing articles for TaxiHack for as long as I can remember. I know everything that is to know when it comes to automobiles and is always on top of industry news and developments. While I am not an expert by any means, I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of many different problems and, of course, their solutions. The articles on our website are some of the best and well-researched content that you will find, and I spend countless hours making sure this remains to be true. This is why I ask you to take your time out and read some of my articles, especially if you find a topic that resonates with you or is something you are looking into. This way, you will find the perfect mix of information and tips on your desired topic. Learn more about Tahir.
