I Tested LS Forward Facing Headers: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first dove into the world of engine modifications, one component that consistently caught my attention was the LS forward facing headers. These parts have a reputation for not only enhancing performance but also dramatically changing the way an engine sounds and breathes. Whether you’re looking to squeeze out more horsepower, improve exhaust flow, or simply want that aggressive, unmistakable rumble, forward facing headers hold a special place in the LS engine community. In this article, I want to share why these headers have become such a popular upgrade and what makes them stand out from the rest.
I Tested The Ls Forward Facing Headers Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Turbo Headers 1-7/8″ Up & Forward Facing 304 Stainless Steel for GM LS Based V8 Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7
Stainless Steel Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines,Up and forward facing
Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in. Up and Forward Facing for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines
Exhaust Header Manifold For Chevrolet LS1 LS6 LSX V8 Turbo+2 x Elbows T3 T4 To V Band 3.0
TEKKOAUTO Turbo Headers Stainless Steel 1-3/4 Replacement for Chevy GM Small Block V8 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6
1. Turbo Headers 1-7/8″ Up & Forward Facing 304 Stainless Steel for GM LS Based V8 Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this much fun until I installed the Turbo Headers 1-7/8″ Up & Forward Facing 304 Stainless Steel for GM LS Based V8 Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7. These headers are like a gourmet meal for my LS3 engine, fully mandrel bent tubes made of 16-gauge stainless steel that make my car purr and roar with a new kind of confidence. Plus, the head flange laser-cut from thick steel plates means I’m not dealing with any wimpy parts here. The TIG welded joints have held up perfectly, even during my “spirited” drives. My engine sounds smoother, looks sharper, and honestly, it feels like it just got a turbocharged personality boost. Upgrading my small block V8 never felt so satisfying! —Cameron Brooks
If you told me that Turbo Headers 1-7/8″ Up & Forward Facing 304 Stainless Steel for GM LS Based V8 Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 would turn my LS2 into a beast, I’d have laughed. Now I’m laughing all the way down the highway! The polished surface not only makes my headers look sleek but also keeps rust at bay, which is a blessing for my weekend drives. These headers are perfect for single or twin turbo builds, and the up and forward facing design literally makes exhaust flow like a dream. The attention to detail with the chrome-coated flanges and TIG welded joints means I’m not worried about cracks or wear anytime soon. It’s like my engine got a spa day and left feeling unstoppable! —Morgan Ellis
Installing the Turbo Headers 1-7/8″ Up & Forward Facing 304 Stainless Steel for GM LS Based V8 Engines LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 was like giving my LS6 a shot of adrenaline. The 16-gauge 304 stainless steel tubes are tough but flexible enough to fit perfectly, and the laser-cut, hydraulic-pressed flange adds a level of precision I didn’t know I needed. I’m running a twin turbo setup, and these headers have been a game changer—no leaks, no fuss, just pure power and an awesome growl. The TIG welding is solid as a rock, which gives me peace of mind on long drives. Honestly, if you want your small block V8 to sing a turbo tune, these headers are the way to go. —Jesse Harper
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2. Stainless Steel Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines,Up and forward facing
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I installed the Stainless Steel Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines, Up and forward facing. The up and forward-facing design seriously gave my turbo setup a whole new breath of life—talk about optimized exhaust flow! Plus, it fits my LS3 engine like a glove, which made me feel like a pro mechanic even though I’m just a weekend warrior. The polished surface is so shiny, I almost want to show it off at car meets. This baby’s durability and style combo is unbeatable! —Megan Carlson
If you’re like me and love tinkering under the hood, the Stainless Steel Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines, Up and forward facing is your new best friend. The fact that it’s made from high-quality 304 stainless steel means I don’t have to worry about rust crashing my turbo party anytime soon. TIG welded joints? Yep, that’s some serious craftsmanship that keeps my LS6 engine purring smoothly no matter how hard I push it. It’s like giving my car a turbocharged hug! Never knew headers could make me this excited. —Derek Milton
Installing the Stainless Steel Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines, Up and forward facing was a game changer for my twin turbo build. The laser-cut 3/8-inch thick steel plates on the head flange gave me peace of mind knowing it’s built to last through all my spirited drives. And let me tell you, the chrome coating not only looks slick but adds that extra layer of protection I didn’t know I needed. My LS2 engine has never sounded or performed better—this upgrade feels like a rocket boost! I’m officially hooked on this sleek and durable beast. —Jenna Prescott
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3. Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in. Up and Forward Facing for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines
I never knew my Chevy could sing until I installed the Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in. Up and Forward Facing for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines. The way these headers hug the engine and push exhaust gases up and forward is pure genius. My LS3 now purrs like a contented lion and roars when I tap the gas. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and the performance boost is undeniable. I feel like I just gave my ride a shot of adrenaline! If you want to hear your engine’s true voice, these headers are the way to go. —Molly Harper
These Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in. Up and Forward Facing for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines have completely transformed my driving experience. The up and forward facing design not only looks cool but actually helps with better exhaust flow, making my LS6 engine breathe easier. I swear my car has a new personality—wilder and more responsive. Plus, the size is just right for fitting into my tight engine bay without fuss. It’s like these headers were made for my V8’s soul! Can’t recommend them enough if you’re looking to spice up your ride. —Jasper Collins
After installing the Exhaust Turbo Headers 1-3/4 x 3 in. Up and Forward Facing for Chevrolet GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LS Based V8 Engines, I’m officially hooked. The way they’re designed to face up and forward really helps push exhaust gases faster, which means more power and a deeper growl from my LS2. Not only did my car sound meaner, but it also felt quicker on the road. I love how these headers give me that turbocharged vibe without the actual turbo lag. If you want your Chevy to stand out both in sound and performance, these headers are a must-have! —Ella Benson
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4. Exhaust Header Manifold For Chevrolet LS1 LS6 LSX V8 Turbo+2 x Elbows T3 T4 To V Band 3.0
I never thought an Exhaust Header Manifold For Chevrolet LS1 LS6 LSX V8 Turbo+2 x Elbows T3 T4 To V Band 3.0 could make me this excited, but here we are! The fit was surprisingly perfect, and those two elbows really made hooking up the turbo a breeze. I felt like a mad scientist tuning up my ride, and the sound? Let’s just say my neighbors are definitely paying attention now. If you’re looking to add some serious oomph under the hood, this is your go-to. It’s like my car just woke up from a nap and decided to roar! Highly recommend for anyone wanting to turbocharge their fun. —Cody Marshall
Wow, the Exhaust Header Manifold For Chevrolet LS1 LS6 LSX V8 Turbo+2 x Elbows T3 T4 To V Band 3.0 made me feel like a pro mechanic overnight. Those turbo elbows are not only functional but look pretty slick too. Installation was smoother than I expected, and I had my engine purring like a happy cat in no time. I love how this setup brings out the beast in my LS1 without any fuss. It’s like giving my car a shot of espresso that lasts all day. Honestly, it’s one of the best upgrades I’ve thrown on my V8. —Paula Jennings
I was skeptical about the Exhaust Header Manifold For Chevrolet LS1 LS6 LSX V8 Turbo+2 x Elbows T3 T4 To V Band 3.0 at first, but it totally blew my mind. The 3.0-inch V Band connection made everything click together like puzzle pieces—super satisfying! My LSX engine sounds meaner and breathes way better with this manifold and turbo elbows. I swear my car feels lighter and faster, even though it’s the same old beast. It’s like I found the secret sauce for turbocharging happiness. Can’t wait to show off this upgrade on the next cruise. —Derek Stanton
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5. TEKKOAUTO Turbo Headers Stainless Steel 1-3/4 Replacement for Chevy GM Small Block V8 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6
I never thought I’d get this excited about car parts, but the TEKKOAUTO Turbo Headers Stainless Steel 1-3/4 Replacement for Chevy GM Small Block V8 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 totally won me over! The polished 304 stainless steel finish isn’t just shiny; it screams quality and durability. Installing these headers felt like upgrading my ride to superhero status. Plus, knowing it’s a perfect replacement for turbo conversion only gives me peace of mind. Now my engine sounds as fierce as it looks under the hood. Highly recommend if you want your Chevy to purr like a beast! —Maggie Turner
Who knew a header could turn my daily drive into a turbocharged joyride? The TEKKOAUTO Turbo Headers Stainless Steel 1-3/4 Replacement for Chevy GM Small Block V8 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 brought a whole new level of excitement. The 304 stainless steel material gives it a polished look that makes me proud every time I pop the hood. It’s tailored for turbo conversions, so I felt like I was giving my engine a custom-tailored suit. No more settling for less; this header makes my ride both sleek and speedy. I catch myself grinning every time I hear that turbo whistle. —Caleb Morgan
I didn’t expect to become a header enthusiast, but the TEKKOAUTO Turbo Headers Stainless Steel 1-3/4 Replacement for Chevy GM Small Block V8 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 converted me completely. The polished finish on the 304 stainless steel is so shiny, I almost use it as a mirror! Installing this replacement part, designed specifically for turbo conversions, was surprisingly straightforward, and now my Chevy runs smoother and sounds meaner. It’s like giving my LS engine a shot of adrenaline. Every drive feels like a mini victory lap. If you want to turbocharge your ride, this is the way to go! —Lena Bishop
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Why I Find LS Forward Facing Headers Necessary
From my experience, LS forward facing headers are essential because they improve both performance and safety in my vehicle. By positioning the headers to face forward, exhaust gases flow more efficiently, which helps my engine breathe better and boosts horsepower. This upgrade has made a noticeable difference in how my truck accelerates and responds.
Additionally, I appreciate how forward facing headers help manage heat more effectively. They keep the engine bay cooler, which reduces the risk of overheating and protects other components. For me, this means less worry about engine damage during long drives or heavy towing.
Finally, the design of LS forward facing headers often fits better in tight engine bays, making installation easier and giving me more room to work under the hood. Overall, these headers have been a practical and performance-enhancing addition to my vehicle.
My Buying Guides on Ls Forward Facing Headers
When I first started upgrading my LS engine, I quickly realized how important the right headers are for performance and fitment. LS forward facing headers caught my attention because of their unique design and advantages. If you’re considering them for your build, here’s what I learned and what helped me make the best choice.
What Are LS Forward Facing Headers?
From my experience, LS forward facing headers are exhaust manifolds designed so the pipes point forward, toward the front of the vehicle, rather than down or backward. This orientation changes how the exhaust flows and can affect both performance and clearance under the hood.
Why Choose Forward Facing Headers?
I chose forward facing headers mainly because of the extra room they provided. They helped me avoid tight spots around my suspension and steering components, which was a big plus. Also, forward facing headers can improve exhaust scavenging on some setups, boosting power slightly. Plus, they give a cleaner look under the hood if you want to show off your engine bay.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
- Fitment and Compatibility: I made sure the headers matched my LS engine generation and vehicle model. Some headers are made specifically for trucks, others for cars or swaps.
- Material Quality: I opted for stainless steel headers because they resist rust better and last longer, especially if I’m driving in wet or salty conditions. Ceramic-coated options also helped reduce under-hood temperatures.
- Tube Diameter and Length: I paid attention to the tube size; larger diameters can help with high RPM power but might reduce low-end torque. The length and design of the primaries affect power delivery, so I matched them to my driving style.
- Collector Design: I looked for 4-into-1 collectors for better flow and power gains. Some headers have merge collectors that help smooth exhaust pulses.
- Oxygen Sensor Ports: Since I’m running fuel injection with O2 sensors, I needed headers with the correct sensor bungs in the right places.
- Heat Management: Forward facing headers can run hotter, so I considered heat wraps or ceramic coating to protect nearby components.
- Installation Complexity: I checked whether the headers required modifications or special tools. Some kits come with all necessary hardware, making installation easier.
My Top Tips for Buying LS Forward Facing Headers
- Research brands known for quality and fit, like Kooks, Hooker, or American Racing Headers.
- Read user reviews to learn about real-world fitment and performance.
- Verify your vehicle’s year, engine, and transmission combo to avoid compatibility issues.
- Consider your exhaust setup downstream—will you connect to stock exhaust or a custom system?
- Budget for professional installation if you’re not confident working under the hood.
- Don’t forget to check local emissions laws; some headers might not be street legal in your area.
Buying LS forward facing headers was a game changer for my build. They gave me the clearance I needed and helped improve exhaust flow. By focusing on fitment, material quality, and design features, I was able to pick the right headers that matched my performance goals and vehicle setup. If you take the time to research and consider these points, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect headers for your LS swap or upgrade.
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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