“Bigger isn’t always better,” says four-time NHRA Pro Stock champ Greg Anderson, about the diameter of exhaust header primary tubes.

In this short tech tip video from Summit Racing and Powerblock TV, you’ll hear Anderson explain that, while smaller-diameter primaries may create less volume, they generate faster exhaust-flow velocity which improves your vehicle’s low- and mid-range torque.

You’ll hear about how full-length, or long-tube headers produce the most power, but that crowded engine compartments sometimes require shorties.

Mild steel is budget-friendly. Stainless steel provides the most ooomph.

In short: Tubular headers are one of the best bolt-on power adders available.

Check it out.

Author: Matt Griswold

After a 10-year newspaper journalism career, Matt Griswold spent another decade writing about the automotive aftermarket and motorsports. He was part of the original OnAllCylinders editorial team when it launched in 2012.