Looking for type4 header suggestions

[grogthegreat]

Hi!
I have a 69 912 that I picked up a couple of months ago and I'm now getting around to getting the car running. The car had an improperly built 2.0L type in it which is getting replaced by a very nice 2.5L type 4. This engine is going to move a lot of air so I've been looking for a 1-5/8" OD header for the car without success. I don't need heat exchangers since I'm in SoCal. The muffler part I can probably fab something up but I'm stuck on the header.

So has anyone here put a high performance type4 engine in their 912 and solved this issue?

Off topic, but where is the best place to find seat belts? The car is missing them and Pelican Parts doesn't seem to have them.

Thanks!
-Grog

[Dave L.]

You have a choice, as there are several firms making semi-custom systems it appears. Strangely perhaps, my favorite header system on a TypeIV is a used Bursch 912E header with a custom cherry-bomb type muffler and correctly oriented tailpipe (this one allows for heat exchangers). Otherwise, take a look at Tangerine Racing for some nice header exhaust components in a couple of configurations- which I believe replace the HE's (no heat). Others will know more than I, I am no expert. R/Dave L. P.S. 2.5 litres done properly sounds mightee-mighty!

[grogthegreat]

Thanks for the reply!
I've seen the Tangerine racing exhaust system. Very impressive but double what I'm looking to spend. If I can't find anything else than I might go for it.

That Bursch 912E header: Isn't that a 1.5" header? Unfortunately, a 1.5" header just isn't going to work with my engine. It is a very well built 2.5L with the proper work done to the heads, forged internals, a hot custom street cam etc. With the redline around 7,500RPM, the engine is going to move more air than can be moved by a 1.5" header. I'm expecting around 180HP but of course hoping I'll hit that 200HP mark. Either way, it will be "enough" till I eventually turbo/fuel inject the engine at which point I should easy hit the 400HP mark. Anyone know what the stock transmission can take and how easy it is to beef up to handle 400-450HP?

So aside from the Tangerine system, does any one know of any other 1-5/8" OD header out there for a rear engine mounted type 4?

[J2Hanson]

If you going to moving alot of air, then go with the Tangerine Racing system. Chris Foley does a great job on them. I have one on my 914 racer. He builds a version for the TIV in the 912.
John

[grogthegreat]

That might just be the route I take although it is tough to spend $2K on an exhaust for a car I paid $3K for. I fuel injected and turboed my type4 powdered sand rail for half the cost of that Tangerine system.
That said, you can tell with just one look at the Tangerine header that a lot of work goes into making it and a it must have taken a huge amount of time to initially design it.
I was just hoping some other option existed that got me 75% of what the Tangerine offered for half the cost. From the lack of replies, It seems there isn't anything else out there as remotely nice so it's either a 100% custom solution or the Tangerine system.

[Dave L.]

Sometimes I need to take my own advice! But seriously, in some circumstances it must be worth saving up for the best. Even if used and sold-on later one of these high-end systems will always have value. That said, I've always liked my $30 "Erkki Special" exhaust made out of a Bursch header and a cherry bomb exhaust fixture with a 'correct exit angle' wide-bore pipe to boot! Don't worry- it's just me! R/Dave L.

[J2Hanson]

FWIW, I bolted my Tangerine system to a car I had paid only $800 for. It was better than driver quality with 51K verified miles! Got to go with what makes you happy. You'll never regret it.
John