Exhaust Manifolds

Kirk Hansen
18 min readMay 12, 2024

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Are you tired of dealing with a lagging, underperforming exhaust manifold? Well, you’re in luck because we’ve rounded up the best products on the market that can help you take your vehicle to the next level! In this article, we’ll bring you the top-rated exhaust manifolds that offer superior performance, durability, and ease of installation. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of exhaust manifolds!

The Top 15 Best Exhaust Manifolds

  1. VEFOR Stainless Steel Chevy Long Tube Exhaust Manifold — Experience enhanced power and durability with the VEVOR Exhaust Header, a perfectly fitting, high-quality solution for Chevy engines.
  2. Chevy Small Block Cast Iron Chrome Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifold — Summit Racing SUM-G9200’s cast iron, chrome exhaust manifolds deliver perfect fit and impressive performance for your Chevy small block engine.
  3. Chevy LS Exhaust Manifold — High Silicon Ductile Iron, Natural Finish — Upgrade your LS Series Chevrolet engine with Summit Racing’s SUM-G9084 exhaust manifolds, offering superior performance and aesthetics in natural, chrome, black, and silver ceramic finishes.
  4. 2010–2012 Chevy Equinox Exhaust Manifold — For Chevy Equinox 2010–2012 owners, this precise and durable Exhaust Manifold is crafted for seamless compatibility, resists wear, and comes complete with essential hardware for a hassle-free installation.
  5. JEGS Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifold — The JEGS 30100 Chrome Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifolds offer a Chrome finish for a sleek appearance and durability, fitting most small block Chevy cylinder heads with round or square exhaust ports, and include mounting hardware and gaskets.
  6. Chevy LS Cast Silver Exhaust Manifolds by Summit Racing SUM-G9082S — Upgrade your Chevy LS Series Engine with Summit Racing’s SUM-G9082S Exhaust Manifolds, available in a variety of finishes and ensuring top-notch performance and style.
  7. Mitsubishi 1555A476 Exhaust Manifold — Affordable and Durable Option — Upgrade your Mitsubishi’s performance with the durable 1555A476 Manifold Exhaust, priced at $445.57, and enjoy a responsive, high-quality driving experience.
  8. Black Exhaust Manifold for Chevy LS Series Engines — Upgrade your LS-based engines with Summit Racing’s top-quality cast exhaust manifolds, available in black ceramic and featuring an impressive fit across multiple Chevy vehicles.
  9. JEGS Exhaust Manifold for GM LS — Elevate your engine’s power with the JEGS 30140 Exhaust Manifolds, boasting robust cast iron construction and designed to work seamlessly with certain GM LS variants.
  10. EMP Dry Joint Exhaust Manifold — Unlock unmatched performance and longevity with the EMP 57–57501 Dry Joint Exhaust Manifold, a top-tier industry product that delivers lasting worth and superior execution.
  11. Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold for Ultimate Performance — The Bully Dog 85100 Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold delivers a superior upgrade for Cummins N-14 engines in 1996–2001, enhancing power output and fuel efficiency through its cutting-edge design.
  12. Bully Dog Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold — Experience unmatched turbo spool and fuel economy with Bully Dog’s 85300 Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold, hand-ported for maximum gains and crafted for ultimate efficiency.
  13. Scott Drake 428CJ Exhaust Manifold for Enhanced Performance — Experience the superior performance and unmistakable style of Ford’s iconic 428 Cobra Jet, 428 Super Cobra Jet, and GT500 Shelby’s with these authentic exhaust manifolds, meticulously crafted for a perfect fit and enhanced driving experience.
  14. Chevy LS Cast Black Exhaust Manifolds for High-Performance Vehicles — Upgrade your LS engine performance with Summit Racing’s SUM-G9084B cast exhaust manifolds, available in high-quality black ceramic coat finishes.
  15. Corvette-Style 2–1/2 inch Ram Horn Exhaust Manifolds — Relive 1962–63 Corvette glory with these 2–1/2" cast iron exhaust manifolds, complete with original generator and water tank brackets for that authentic touch.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive compensation from qualified purchases!

Reviews

VEFOR Stainless Steel Chevy Long Tube Exhaust Manifold

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I recently tried out the VEVOR Exhaust Manifold Header for my Chevy and was impressed by the fit and finish. The polished surface looked great and the 1 1/2" tube diameter gave the exhaust system a substantial feel.

One thing I noticed was that the holes lined up perfectly, but I had to make a slight adjustment to the bolts on the driver’s side, as the exhaust pipe was obstructing their path. Overall, the headers performed well and the easy installation made it a great option for a direct replacement. The VEVOR Exhaust Manifold Header is definitely worth considering for its cost-effective, high-quality design and excellent compatibility with Chevy models.

Chevy Small Block Cast Iron Chrome Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifold

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These Summit Racing SUM-G9200 exhaust manifolds not only look great but also deliver impressive performance for Chevy small block engines. Crafted from cast iron and available in chrome, natural, black, and silver ceramic finishes, these manifolds provide a stylish and durable upgrade to your vehicle. The rams horn style and 2.50-inch collector make it a perfect fit for a variety of engines, including those from Gen I.

The product comes with mounting hardware and gaskets included, ensuring a smooth and straightforward installation process. With a high rating from users and a 5.0 out of 5.0 rating on the product page, it’s clear that Summit Racing’s cast exhaust manifolds are a reliable and popular choice for Chevy enthusiasts.

Chevy LS Exhaust Manifold — High Silicon Ductile Iron, Natural Finish

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These Chevy LS cast exhaust manifolds from Summit Racing are an impressive addition to my vehicle. Fitting perfectly into my LS-based engine, these high-quality manifolds not only look great but also perform as expected. The natural finish gives it a sleek and stylish appearance, making my car stand out in the crowd.

One thing I appreciate is the attention to detail in crafting these exhaust manifolds. The high silicon ductile iron construction ensures durability and withstands the intense performance demands of my engine. Plus, the included mounting hardware makes installation a breeze.

However, one downside I’ve noticed is that the gaskets aren’t included in the package, which means an extra trip to the auto parts store. Additionally, there are limited options for the finish, so if I wanted a different look, I’d have to search elsewhere.

Overall, my experience with the Chevy LS cast exhaust manifolds has been mostly positive. Their performance and style have been a game-changer for my vehicle, and as long as I’m mindful of the gaskets and customization possibilities, I have no reservations about recommending these exhaust manifolds to fellow gearheads.

2010–2012 Chevy Equinox Exhaust Manifold

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I recently installed this exhaust manifold on my 2011 Chevy Equinox, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The fit was perfect, just like the stock manifold. I was impressed by its durability, as it’s crafted with materials that resist warping, cracking, and leaking, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Not only did it fit well, but it also came with all the necessary gaskets and downpipe hardware, making the installation process a breeze. After installation, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the performance of my vehicle. The exhaust manifold has been a game-changer for my car’s overall driving experience.

However, the only downside I experienced was that the hardware included was a bit challenging to work with, but after some trial and error, I managed to get everything in place. Overall, this exhaust manifold is a great choice for those looking to enhance their Chevy Equinox’s performance without breaking the bank.

JEGS Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifold

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The JEGS 30100 Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifolds are a chrome-finished product, providing great looks under the hood and ensuring a long life. Purchasing one pair will complete the manifold installation on 283, 307, 327, 350, and 400 small block Chevy applications.

The kit includes manifolds, gaskets, and hardware, ensuring a seamless installation process. Additionally, the manifolds fit most straight and angle spark plug configurations, providing peace of mind for users. The JEGS 555–30100 Chrome Rams Horn Style Exhaust Manifolds are an excellent choice for those looking to enhance the appearance and performance of their small block Chevy engines.

Chevy LS Cast Silver Exhaust Manifolds by Summit Racing SUM-G9082S

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Embrace the allure of Chevy LS Cast Silver exhaust manifolds, available through Summit Racing. Made from high-silicon ductile iron, these babies boast a silver ceramic coated finish, making them as much a style statement as a performance enhancer.

While they come with mounting hardware, you’ll have to grab the gaskets separately — no worries, though, as Summit Racing offers a wide array of options. And if there’s any hassle or return needed, fear not — Summit Racing’s got your back with a 30-day return policy and an experienced support team ready to assist you in a jiffy.

Just remember, these pics are for eye-candy only, and you’ll want to double-check fitment before you place that sweet order. Plus, it’s not every day you can say you’re buying from a company with a history as deep as Summit Racing, clocking in at over 100 years. So, gear up, because these manifolds are ready to rumble!

Mitsubishi 1555A476 Exhaust Manifold — Affordable and Durable Option

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The Mitsubishi Manifold Exhaust, specifically model 1555A476, has been a game-changer in my car’s performance. I always felt the need to improve my exhaust system, and after doing some research, I found this aftermarket manifold. It’s been a life-saver, providing optimal performance and eliminating the hassle of constantly dealing with a cracked OEM manifold.

I must say, the product is incredibly easy to install, and the cleanliness of the manifold is something worth mentioning. It truly shines compared to the OEM options I’ve used in the past. The price point of 445.57$ may seem a bit steep, but considering the performance boost and the durability of this product, it’s well worth the investment.

However, the weight of the product could be a concern for those who prioritize lightweight components. Nonetheless, the pros outweigh the cons for me, and I wouldn’t trade my experience with this aftermarket manifold for anything.

Black Exhaust Manifold for Chevy LS Series Engines

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I recently had the opportunity to install the Summit Racing SUM-G9080B Chevy LS Cast Black Exhaust Manifolds on my trusty project car. Overall, I was quite impressed with the overall quality and performance.

One of the features that stood out for me was the sleek, ceramic black finish. Not only did it make the engine compartment look sleek, but it also proved to be quite resistant to scratches and weathering — something I am quite particular about on my projects.

The high-silicon ductile iron material used in the construction of the manifolds also caught my attention for its resilience and durability. I haven’t experienced any performance issues, and the custom fit for Chevy LS-based engines makes for seamless integration with my car.

However, there were some minor drawbacks. Firstly, the absence of exhaust manifold gaskets included with the product meant I had to spend extra time and money sourcing them separately. Secondly, although the mounting hardware was included, it could have been easier to manage and use, considering the tight spaces within an engine compartment.

Despite these minor setbacks, the Summit Racing SUM-G9080B Chevy LS Cast Black Exhaust Manifolds certainly exceeded my expectations, and have proven to be a reliable and attractive addition to my project car. I recommend them for anyone looking for quality and a touch of class in their exhaust system.

JEGS Exhaust Manifold for GM LS

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I recently had the chance to try out these JEGS 30140 Exhaust Manifolds for my GM LS engine, and I must say, they fit like a glove. The cast iron design gives the manifold a robust and durable feel, which I appreciate in any product I use. One feature that stood out to me was the inclusion of gaskets, making installation a breeze.

However, the pair of manifolds did come with a bit of a challenge. Fitment issues may arise with cars equipped with air conditioning, and modifications to brackets might be necessary. But, that was the only drawback I encountered.

Overall, these JEGS Exhaust Manifolds performed well and added a touch of elegance to my engine’s appearance.

EMP Dry Joint Exhaust Manifold

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The EMP 57–57501 Dry Joint Exhaust Manifold is an impressive piece of automotive engineering, boasting a well-balanced design and high craftsmanship. It’s made from premium materials and produced using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring both unparalleled durability and lasting value. This top-grade product also emphasizes total quality assurance, making it an incomparable choice for those seeking only the best.

Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold for Ultimate Performance

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Imagine upgrading your Cummins N-14 engine with the Bully Dog 85100 Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold. I’ve been using this product for a few weeks now, and it’s been a game-changer for my rig. The ceramic coating adds a touch of class to this essential part, and it’s quickly become a favorite in my shop.

This Bully Dog exhaust manifold is built to last with its high-flowing design. It not only helped me increase power output but also improved fuel economy, which has been fantastic for my daily operations. The engineering team behind this product really put in the work, using state-of-the-art CAD design software to create a manifold that truly makes a difference.

But that’s not all, my experience wasn’t perfect. I must admit, I nearly had a heart attack when I ordered a Bully Dog manifold and received a full tilt — I guess the universe has a sense of humor. Still, the product itself has been fantastic, and the additional turbo mounting gasket, spacers, and screws have been incredibly helpful.

In summary, the Bully Dog 85100 Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold provides an impressive upgrade to the old stock manifold, and it’s been a game-changer for my class 8 engine. It comes with all the necessary parts for a hassle-free replacement, and it’s definitely worth the investment if you’re looking for improved engine performance. Just be sure to double-check your order next time, like I did, so you can avoid a bit of laughter.

Bully Dog Ceramic Coated Exhaust Manifold

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When I first received the Bully Dog 85300 ceramic coated exhaust manifold, I was curious to see if it could live up to the claims of providing quicker turbo spool, higher power output, and more fuel economy for my class 8 engine. Right off the bat, the design of the manifold caught my eye — it looked sleek and sturdy with its thicker manifold flanges and exhaust manifold walls.

Upon installation, I noticed a significant improvement in my engine’s performance. The manifold’s increased airflow made my vehicle feel more responsive, and the elimination of any bottlenecks in its design ensured smooth, efficient power output. The ceramic coating also added a touch of style to my truck’s exterior.

However, one downside I discovered was the weight of the product — at 35 lbs, it wasn’t the lightest option available on the market. But overall, the Bully Dog 85300 ceramic coated exhaust manifold lived up to its reputation as a high-quality, performance-enhancing upgrade for my class 8 engine.

Scott Drake 428CJ Exhaust Manifold for Enhanced Performance

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If you’re seeking an authentic, high-performance exhaust manifold, look no further than these Scott Drake units. Crafted to resemble the original Ford equipment, these manifolds are perfect for those who care about preserving their vehicles’ original appearance. The cast ductile iron material adds not only strength and durability but also a classic look.

Two versions are available for those who prefer an early or late model of the Cobra Jet, Super Cobra Jet, or GT500 Shelby. While the earlier version provides a perfect fit with its right-side spacer, the later version eliminates the need for one. No gasket or seal is included, but the exhaust flange studs and nuts are handy for installation. These manifolds are compatible with factory exhaust systems and H-pipes, ensuring a smooth and seamless upgrade.

However, some users have commented on the packaging, so make sure to check that when the product arrives. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 and two positive reviews, these exhaust manifolds are undeniably a worthwhile investment.

Chevy LS Cast Black Exhaust Manifolds for High-Performance Vehicles

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I recently had the chance to try out the Summit Racing SUM-G9084B Chevy LS Cast Black Exhaust Manifolds, and I have to say, they exceeded my expectations. The high-quality construction, with its high silicon ductile iron material and black ceramic coating, gave these exhaust manifolds a sleek, stylish look that really stood out.

However, there was a bit of a downside to this product. The lack of exhaust manifold gaskets and the absence of mounting hardware were a bit disappointing, especially considering the pricepoint. Nonetheless, the performance of these exhaust manifolds met my expectations, and they fit great in my Chevy LS engine.

Overall, the Summit Racing SUM-G9084B cast black exhaust manifolds are an excellent choice for any LS engine enthusiast looking to improve performance and add a touch of style to their ride. While there were a few drawbacks, the positive features outweigh the negatives, making this a solid purchase for the price.

Corvette-Style 2–1/2 inch Ram Horn Exhaust Manifolds

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Introducing the Corvette-style 2–1/2 inch Ram Horn Exhaust Manifolds, a pair that brings a perfect blend of style and performance to your engine build. Featuring the signature 2–1/2" diameter outlets, these manifolds offer a more open exhaust experience, improving the overall power and performance of your vehicle.

Designed in the image of the legendary 1962–63 327 Corvette, these exhaust manifolds come with a natural finish, making them a handsome addition to any retro-styled build. With the inclusion of adaptable brackets for the water tank on the driver’s side and the original generator bracket on the passenger side, these manifolds are adaptable to a variety of engines.

The cast in brackets of the Fits Chevy ram horn manifolds provide you with a square port configuration, perfect for a 1–5/16" top to bottom and side to side measurement. This allows you to compare the gasket’s compatibility with your head port. Modeled after the original 1962–63 327 Corvette manifolds, these units can easily fit onto a wide range of small block engines up to 1999.

This product package offers gaskets for manifold to cylinder head and outlet collector, making it a hassle-free installation process. The hardware for the manifold to cylinder head bolts and the collector stud are also included, providing you with all you need to complete the setup.

Overall, these Corvette-style Exhaust Manifolds offer an excellent match with a vintage Chevrolet build, combining classic appearance with modern functionality for a satisfying performance experience.

Buyer’s Guide

In the realm of exhaust systems, the exhaust manifold emerges as a vital component, significantly contributing to overall performance and efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the pivotal characteristics, deliberations, and advisory points to assist you in making well-informed decisions when acquiring an exhaust manifold.

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Materials

The selection of materials employed in constructing an exhaust manifold carries weight, influencing its resilience, resistance to corrosion, and overall performance. Notable materials encompass cast iron, stainless steel, and aluminum. Stainless steel often reigns supreme, boasting corrosion resistance and durability. Nevertheless, aluminum possesses an edge in terms of weight, which can catalyze improved performance and reduction.

Size

The size of an exhaust manifold bears a direct impact on the exhaust flow, consequently affecting engine performance. It’s imperative to contemplate the precise measurements of the exhaust ports to ensure compatibility with the prevailing exhaust system. Moreover, the proportions of the manifold in relation to the engine and turbocharger, if applicable, can exert profound influence on performance and flow optimization.

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Gasket/Seal System

The efficacy and longevity of an exhaust manifold hinge upon the reliability of the gasket or seal system. Premium gaskets or seals should withstand high temperatures and pressures, thereby ensuring optimal performance. When procuring an exhaust manifold, prioritize one equipped with a dependable gasket or seal system.

Additional Features

Numerous additional features can elevate the performance and functionality of an exhaust manifold. These may include attributes such as heat shielding, high-flow catalytic converters, and integrated exhaust valves. Assess whether any of these features align with your specific requirements and vehicle application.

By comprehensively understanding these factors, you can confidently navigate the exhaust manifold market and make informed decisions that enhance the performance and efficiency of your vehicle.

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FAQ

What is an Exhaust Manifold?

An exhaust manifold is a crucial component of an internal combustion engine. It’s a system of tubes that connects the engine’s cylinders to the exhaust valves and the catalytic converter or muffler. Its primary function is to gather exhaust gases from different cylinders and direct them towards the catalytic converter or muffler for further processing and reduction of emissions before releasing them into the atmosphere.

Exhaust manifolds are designed to optimize exhaust flow and reduce back pressure, which in turn improves engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions. They come in various materials such as cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel, and can be either single or double-sided depending on the number of cylinders in an engine.

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What are the types of Exhaust Manifolds?

There are various types of exhaust manifolds, some of which include cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel. The choice of material can affect an exhaust manifold’s heat resistance, durability, and weight. Cast iron exhaust manifolds are heavy and durable but are gradually being replaced due to their weight and poor heat resistance.

Aluminum exhaust manifolds are lightweight and have better heat resistance than cast iron, making them an attractive option for high-performance engines. Stainless steel exhaust manifolds are the most durable and lightweight of the three materials, making them the standard choice for many high-performance applications.

What is a Single versus Double exhaust manifolds?

A single exhaust manifold connects all the engine’s cylinders to a single exhaust valve, while a double exhaust manifold separates the exhaust gases into two separate paths. Single exhaust manifolds are simpler and less expensive to produce but may result in poor power output and increased back pressure.

On the other hand, double exhaust manifolds provide better performance by reducing back pressure and optimizing exhaust flow. They also help to balance the exhaust gases by releasing them from both sides of the engine. However, they are more expensive and complex to produce compared to single exhaust manifolds.

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What are the benefits of a high-performance Exhaust Manifold?

A high-performance exhaust manifold offers multiple benefits for an engine. Firstly, it helps to reduce back pressure, which in turn improves engine performance by allowing more exhaust gases to be expelled from the engine. Reduced back pressure also allows the engine to breathe more freely, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.

Secondly, high-performance exhaust manifolds are designed to optimize exhaust flow, which ensures that the engine’s power is maximized. This helps to reduce emissions, making the engine more environmentally friendly. Finally, high-performance exhaust manifolds are often made of lightweight materials such as stainless steel, making them more durable and less susceptible to wear and tear.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter is an essential component of an exhaust manifold system. It functions as a catalyst, which means it speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed or changed in the process. In the case of an exhaust manifold, a catalytic converter works to convert harmful exhaust gases into less harmful or harmless substances before they are released into the atmosphere.

Catalytic converters contain a mix of precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which are responsible for the catalytic reaction. These metals help to reduce carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides, making the exhaust more environmentally friendly. Over time, the precious metals can become depleted, which may reduce the catalytic converter’s effectiveness. However, most modern cars have a catalyst regeneration system that helps to restore the converter’s performance.

How does an Exhaust Manifold affect an engine’s performance?

An exhaust manifold plays a crucial role in an engine’s performance. It helps to reduce back pressure, which in turn improves the engine’s breathing and power output. A well-designed exhaust manifold also optimizes exhaust flow, ensuring that the engine’s power is maximized. This helps to reduce emissions, making the engine more environmentally friendly.

Moreover, the use of high-performance exhaust manifolds made from materials such as stainless steel can improve an engine’s performance by reducing weight and increasing durability. Additionally, high-performance exhaust manifolds are often designed to provide better balance between exhaust gases, which can further enhance an engine’s power output.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive compensation from qualified purchases!

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