Kooks 97-04 Chevrolet Corvette Base 1-7/8 x 3 Header & Green Catted X-Pipe Kit

The Complete Bolt-On Header and Catted X-Pipe Upgrade for 1997 through 2004 C5 Corvette LS1 and LS6

The Kooks 2150H430 is a 1-7/8 inch by 3 inch long tube header and GREEN catted X-pipe kit engineered as a complete bolt-on system for the C5 Corvette with the LS1 or LS6 5.7L V8, replacing the factory cast iron manifolds and restrictive mid-pipe with a matched stainless steel exhaust system that connects directly to the OEM 2.5 inch catback without modification.

The 1-7/8 inch mandrel-bent T304 stainless primaries maintain constant inside diameter through every bend to preserve velocity and eliminate the turbulence that pressed or crush-bent tubing creates, feeding into merged 3 inch collectors that maximize exhaust scavenging across the LS powerband.

The GREEN catted X-pipe uses high-flow 400-cell catalytic converters in a 3 inch by 3 inch configuration that provides the tonal and flow characteristics the C5 platform is known for, while keeping the 2150H430 49-state EPA compliant for full street use. O2 sensor extensions, exhaust gaskets, and all mounting hardware are included in the kit so no additional parts are required. Kooks builds every 2150H430 to order in the USA from 3/8 inch laser-cut flanges with hand-ported LS1/LS6 cylinder head inlets and 16-gauge tube walls throughout.

The 2150H430 fits 1997 through 2004 C5 Corvette Base, Coupe, Convertible, and Hardtop models with the LS1 5.7L and the 2001 through 2004 LS6 5.7L engine. This is the GREEN catted version for 49-state street use. California residents: this product does not meet CARB standards and is not legal for street use in California.

Key Features

• 1-7/8 Inch Long Tube Headers: Mandrel-bent T304 stainless primaries sized for broad torque gains and top-end power on the naturally aspirated LS1 and LS6.
• GREEN Catted X-Pipe: 3 inch by 3 inch stainless X-pipe with 400-cell high-flow catalytic converters, EPA compliant for 49-state street use.
• Connects to OEM 2.5 Inch Catback: X-pipe outlets are sized for the factory C5 catback with no cutting, welding, or adapters required.
• 3/8 Inch Laser-Cut Flanges: Hand-ported inlets match LS1/LS6 port dimensions for a leak-free seal without gasket failure.
• T304 Aircraft-Quality Stainless Steel: 16-gauge construction with full TIG welds for corrosion resistance and long-term heat durability.
• All Hardware Included: O2 sensor extensions, exhaust gaskets, clamps, and Stage 8 locking bolts included. no additional parts required.
• 49-State EPA Compliant: GREEN catted converters meet federal emissions standards outside California CARB jurisdiction.
• Made in the USA: Built to order at Kooks' American facility.

What's Included

• Left and right 1-7/8 inch x 3 inch T304 stainless steel long tube headers
• 3 inch x 3 inch GREEN catted stainless X-pipe with 400-cell catalytic converters
• Stage 8 locking header bolts and mounting hardware
• Exhaust port gaskets
• O2 sensor extension harnesses
• Clamps
  

Product Specifications

This Part Fits

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Kooks 2150H430 fit both the LS1 and LS6 C5 Corvette?
Yes. The 2150H430 fits all 1997 through 2004 C5 Corvette models equipped with either the LS1 5.7L or the LS6 5.7L engine. The LS6 was available from 2001 to 2004 in the Z51 and fixed roof coupe variants.

Does the Kooks 2150H430 connect to the factory C5 catback?
Yes. The GREEN catted X-pipe outlets are 2.5 inch OEM style, connecting directly to the factory C5 Corvette catback system without cutting, welding, or adapters.

Do I need a tune after installing the Kooks 2150H430 on a stock C5?
A tune is not strictly required on a stock naturally aspirated C5 Corvette, but a professional dyno tune is recommended to take full advantage of the improved exhaust flow and maximize horsepower and torque gains. Modified builds should always be tuned.

What is the difference between the 2150H430 and the 2150H420?
The 2150H430 is the GREEN catted version that includes catalytic converters for 49-state EPA compliant street use. The 2150H420 is the off-road version with standard catted pipes. Both use the same 1-7/8 inch header tubes and 3 inch X-pipe.

Is the Kooks 2150H430 legal in California?
No. The 2150H430 does not meet CARB standards and is not legal for street use in California or other CARB-regulated states. It is 49-state EPA compliant.

How long does it take to receive the Kooks 2150H430?
The 2150H430 is built to order in the USA. Lead time is typically 4 to 6 weeks from the order date.

Does the Kooks 2150H430 fit the C5 Corvette Convertible?
Yes. The 2150H430 fits C5 Corvette Coupe, Convertible, and Hardtop models from 1997 through 2004 with both the LS1 and LS6 5.7L engines.

What warranty does the Kooks 2150H430 carry?
Kooks provides a limited lifetime warranty on all T304 stainless steel header and pipe components, and a 25,000-mile warranty on the GREEN catalytic converters.

Does the 2150H430 kit include everything needed for installation?
Yes. The complete kit includes Stage 8 locking header bolts, exhaust port gaskets, O2 sensor extension harnesses, clamps, and installation instructions. No additional parts are required for installation on a stock C5 Corvette.

• Will these headers void my factory powertrain warranty?
  Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void your vehicle warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket part unless they prove the component directly caused the failure. Consult your dealer for specifics on your situation.
• Are gaskets included with Kooks headers?
  Kooks long tube header kits include the necessary mounting hardware. Header to head gaskets may or may not be included depending on the specific application. Review the What's Included section above and have OEM spec intake gaskets available as a precaution before beginning installation.
• Will these headers work with my stock cat back exhaust?
  Most Kooks connection pipe kits are designed to mate directly with the factory cat back exhaust inlet. Verify the collector and connection pipe outlet diameter matches your factory or aftermarket cat back system before ordering to ensure a correct fitment.
• Can I use these headers with a supercharged or turbocharged engine?
  Kooks long tube headers are engineered for both naturally aspirated and forced induction applications. Many Kooks header designs are rated for 500 to 750 HP and above making them an excellent choice for boosted builds. Confirm the specific power range listed in the specifications above for this application.
• Is professional installation required?
  While an experienced DIY mechanic can install Kooks headers with the right tools and a vehicle lift, professional installation is recommended. Improper installation can cause exhaust leaks, damaged oxygen sensor threads, or fitment issues that are difficult to diagnose after the fact.
• Q: Do these Kooks headers require a tune after installation?
  A: Yes. A professional tune is strongly recommended after installing long tube headers. The significant improvement in exhaust flow changes air fuel ratios and requires ECM recalibration to achieve optimal power output and safe operation.
• Q: Will Kooks headers void my factory powertrain warranty?
  A: Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void your vehicle warranty simply because you installed an aftermarket part unless they prove the component directly caused the failure in question. Consult your dealer for specifics.
• Q: What warranty does Kooks provide?
  A: Kooks products are backed by a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser against defects in materials and workmanship. Racing and competition use applications may have specific warranty exclusions. Contact Kooks Performance directly for warranty details.

Prop 65 Warning

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Chromium and Nickel, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.p65warnings.ca.gov.

Installation Instructions

Safely raise and support the C5 Corvette on a lift or jack stands with full access to both exhaust banks. Disconnect O2 sensor connectors and remove the factory exhaust manifolds and mid-pipe assembly. Clean the LS1 or LS6 cylinder head flanges thoroughly before positioning the Kooks 2150H430 headers. Install headers using the included gaskets and Stage 8 locking bolts, torquing in the proper sequence per the included instruction sheet. Connect the GREEN catted X-pipe to the header collectors and route to the factory 2.5 inch catback outlets, securing with the included clamps. Reconnect O2 sensors using the provided extension harnesses. No tuning is required for naturally aspirated C5 Corvette applications, but a dyno tune is recommended for modified builds to maximize power gains. Professional installation is recommended for C5 header swaps due to tight clearances in the tunnel area.