H22 header

Types of H22 Headers

H22 headers are exhaust headers designed for the H22 engine, commonly found in Honda vehicles. These headers replace the stock exhaust manifold to improve engine performance by reducing exhaust backpressure and enhancing exhaust flow. There are several types of H22 headers, including:

• H22A headers: These headers are designed for the H22A engine, which has a higher horsepower rating compared to other H22 engines. The headers improve exhaust flow to match the high horsepower potential of the H22A engine. H22A headers usually have larger diameter pipes and smoother transitions to the collector.
• H22A4 headers: The H22A4 engine is a variation of the H22A engine. The headers for the H22A4 engine are similar to those of the H22A engine. However, the headers for the H22A4 engine are tuned differently to match the specific horsepower and torque ratings of the H22A4 engine.
• H22A1 headers: The H22A1 engine is a variation of the H22A engine. The headers for the H22A1 engine have a different design compared to the headers for the H22A and H22A4 engines. This is because the H22A1 engine has a different exhaust port layout and a lower horsepower rating.
• H22A VTEC headers: The H22A VTEC headers are designed for the H22A VTEC engine. The headers for the H22A VTEC engine are tuned to provide optimal exhaust flow at both low and high RPMs, maximizing the benefits of Honda's VTEC system. H22A VTEC headers often feature a dual outlet design to support the switching of the VTEC system between the low and high cam profiles.

Other headers include the H22A4 VTEC headers and the H22A5 and H22A6 headers. The H22 headers have either tubular or cast iron designs. Tubular headers are more common among aftermarket headers. They have a series of tubes that connect to each exhaust port and merge into a collector. Cast iron headers have a cast iron body where the exhaust ports and collector are molded as a single piece. Cast iron headers are typically used in stock and older H22 engines.

Specification & Maintenance of H22 Headers

H22 Headers come in different specifications depending on the manufacturer and the model.

• Material

  Headers can be made of stainless steel, carbon steel, or mild steel. Each material will have a different effect on performance and durability.

• Coating

  Some headers come coated with heat-resistant paint. The coating improves the look of the headers and adds a layer of protection against rust.

• Surface finish

  When the headers are finished, they will affect how they look and how they perform. A polished finish will give the headers a shine, while a brushed finish will leave them with a dull look.

• Flange thickness

  The flanges come in varying thicknesses. Thick flanges will give a firm connection to the engine and the exhaust pipes.

• Pipe diameter

  Headers will have pipes of different sizes. Larger pipes will allow more exhaust flow, thus improving performance.

• Number of stages

  Some headers have more than one stage, which helps improve engine performance even further.

To enjoy the benefits that come with h22 headers, it is important to take care of them. Here is how to maintain h22 headers:

• Regular cleaning

  It is important to clean the headers regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and dust. When cleaning, use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Avoid using abrasive materials as they may scratch the surface of the headers.

• Inspect for rust

  Check the headers regularly to see if there are any signs of rust. In case of any, use a rust remover to treat the affected area. If the rust is severe, the only option left will be to replace the headers.

• Tighten bolts and nuts

  Over time, the bolts and the nuts that hold the headers in place may become loose. Therefore, users should check the headers regularly to see if the bolts and the nuts are tight and secure.

• Protective coating

  Consider applying a protective coating to the headers. The coating acts as a barrier against damaging elements like moisture and heat.

• Avoid dragging on the ground

  When driving, ensure the vehicle does not scrape on the ground. Scraping can damage the headers, thus affecting performance.

How to Choose H22 Headers

Before choosing H22 headers for resale, it is important to understand the different types and their suitability. Some of the factors to consider when choosing H22 headers are;

• Vehicle Compatibility

  It is important to select headers that will fit the targeted car models. Different vehicles have different specifications. The header's mounting flanges, as well as the exhaust pipe connections, should be compatible.

• Material

  It is advisable to choose headers made from materials compatible with the targeted customers' preferences. For instance, some customers may prefer steel headers because they are affordable. Other customers may go for stainless steel ones because they are corrosion resistant.

• Style

  Consider the style that will suit the targeted customers' performance needs. For example, some customers may prefer the H- pipe design because it enhances low-end torque. Others go for the equal-length design since it improves high-end power.

• Finish

  Select headers with a finish that will be appealing to the targeted customers. Some headers have a polished finish, while others have a coated finish. Coated headers tend to have a better appearance and also protect the header from harsh weather conditions.

• Ease of Installation

  Choose headers that are easy to install. This is because some customers may want to install the headers themselves. Also, choose headers that come with all the necessary mounting hardware.

• Quality and Durability

  Choose durable headers that are made by reputable manufacturers. This is because cheap headers can easily get damaged, hence, compromising exhaust flow and even affecting engine performance.

Choose headers that have a good reputation for enhancing engine performance. To know the performance of the headers, read customer reviews.

How to DIY and Replace H22 Header

It is recommended that only qualified individuals perform header installations. Installing a header requires a fundamental understanding of how an engine works and its basic components. It also requires knowledge of automotive repair.

Here are some general steps that are involved in replacing an H22 header:

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool before starting.
• Disconnect the battery's negative terminal.
• Jack up the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Remove the undercarriage splash shield if the header is covered.
• Remove the front tires and inner wheel well liner on the side where the header is being replaced.
• Drain the coolant from the cooling system into a clean container and recycle it per local regulations.
• Loosen the clamps and remove the exhaust pipes connected to the header using an 8 mm or 10 mm socket.
• Disconnect the VTEC solenoid from the header and remove the VTEC hoses.
• Remove the bolts that secure the header to the engine using a 14 mm ratcheting wrench.
• Carefully remove the old header and replace it with the new one. Ensure that the new header is compatible with the exhaust system.
• Reconnect the VTEC solenoid and hoses to the new header.
• Reinstall the exhaust pipes and torque the clamps to the specified torque settings.
• Reconnect the inner wheel well liner and front tire.
• Reconnect the battery's negative terminal and start the engine to ensure everything is working properly.

Q&A

Q: What is the difference between the H22A and H22A1 headers?

A: The headers are basically the same ones. The H22A1 header was designed for the American market, while the H22A header was designed for the Japanese market.

Q: Can an H22A engine fit in any car?

A: No, the H22A engine cannot fit into any car. However, it is a common swap for many cars, especially the Honda Civic and Accord. Before swapping, consult with a professional mechanic to know whether the engine can be fitted into the car's chassis.

Q: Does the H22A header add more horsepower to the engine?

A: Yes, the H22A header can add some horsepower to the engine. By replacing the stock exhaust manifold with a headers, users can expect to gain anywhere from 5 to 15 horsepower, depending on other supporting mods in the engine.