Do you drive a Dodge RAM? Thinking of replacing the exhaust header soon? Picking from the best headers for 5.7 Hemi RAM for an upgrade or replacement is essential.
There are various types of headers in the market, which sometimes make it exhausting and stressful to select the perfect design for your 5.7 Hemi RAM.
When you go for a top-quality header for your Hemi RAM, such a design or product enhances the sound and overall performance of your truck’s exhaust system by making sure it gets the needed boost.
If you want an improved performance without leaks, then it is important to invest in a top-quality header.
Asides from the durability that the top headers that are available on the market give, they are also very reliable.
Contents
The Comparison Table 13 Best Headers For 5.7 Hemi Ram [2023]
In this article, we have been able to identify the best headers for 5.7 Hemi RAM on the market.
We will be discussing 10 of these headers among the 13. These headers are selected based on their performance and price.
The top choices of headers you will find on the market today are BBK Performance, JBA, Auto Dynasty, BLACKHORSE-RACING, Gibson Performance Exhaust, Pacesetter, and Hooker.
10 Best Headers For 5.7 Hemi Ram Reviews & Buying Guide
01. BBK (4014) 1-5/8″ Chrome Shorty Tuned-Length Exhaust Header – Best Overall 5.7 Hemi Headers
Highlighted Features
- Made of high-quality steel
- Comes in 3 different exterior coating
- Installation guide
- Durable
- Perfect for all kinds of weather
BBK header is designed to deliver incredible power output. When installed in your truck, it increases your engine’s horsepower.
On average, you will experience between 15 to 25 increases in horsepower.
The amazing increase in horsepower is as a result of the free flow of air. The free flow of air occurs as a result of the huge diameter of the primary tube.
In terms of finish coating and appearance, this header comes in three various options. These options are the chrome, silver ceramic, and stainless coated finish.
This gives buyers the option to select the one that complements their trucks in terms of appearance. This particular design comes in chrome finish.
It offers a great combination of sound and power. This header has no leaks in terms of performance, and they are long-lasting.
No matter how extreme the weather condition is, this high-performance header doesn’t get affected.
The installation of this product on your 5.7 Hemi RAM takes a lot of time, but the process is very easy.
On average, you should dedicate up to six hours to the installation process.
Amazingly. It comes with all the necessary components or hardware that are needed for installation. Also, an installation guide comes with it.
Pros
- 15 to 25 more horsepower
- Incredible power output
- Easy to install
- Comes will all installation components
Cons
- Installation takes about 6 hours
02. BBK (40140) 1-5/8″ Shorty Tuned – Best Length Exhaust Header
Highlighted Features
- Ceramic finish
- 15 more horsepower
- Durable and long-lasting
- Comes with all the installation hardware
- Made of top-quality steel
The design of this header is perfect. When installed, it fits into your truck perfectly. It brings about an improvement in acceleration and improves the overall performance of the engine.
This is one of the most popular headers, and it offers great benefits in terms of performance, durability, and longevity.
This product is made from high-quality steel, and the exterior is coated with a ceramic finish.
It is very easy to install, although it takes a very long time to complete the installation.
This header comes with all the components and hardware you need for installation, and the installation guide is also present in the package. After installation, you will get up to 15 more horsepower.
It is not expensive for the kind of improved performance it offers. After installation, you will be pleased with the purchase.
Overall, the header is of great quality. The sound of your truck improves fits well, and it offers a wonderful solution for your 5.7 Hemi RAM.
Pros
- Improvement in overall engine performance
- Affordable & Easy to install
- Fits perfectly and offers great sound
Cons
- Takes a very long time to fix
03. JBA (6961S) 1-7/8″ Stainless Steel
Highlighted Features
- Perfect fit for 5.7 Hemi RAM
- Comes with all the installation hardware
- Made from top quality stainless steel
- Increase in horsepower
- Improves the RPM efficiency
JBA offers a great improvement to your vehicle in terms of performance and quality. This is known as an improved upgrade for your 5.7 Hemi RAM.
It is made of top quality stainless steel, and it offers an exceptional increase in the overall performance of your truck’s engine.
Just like the first two products on this list, JBA 6961S offers an increase in horsepower and as well offers an increase in the efficiency of the RPM.
If you drive the 2006 to 2014 model of Dodge RAM 5.7, this is the perfect replacement header for you.
In the kit are all the components and hardware you need for installation.
The installation is easy, but you must plan well for this exercise. On average, it takes about 6 hours to complete the installation exercise.
Also, during installation, you will need to modify the factory pipes. If you are considering using the header with Y-pipes, it is not supported.
In terms of price, the JBA header is offered at a very reasonable price. You won’t have to break the bank for it. Overall, it overs a great improvement.
Pros
- The price is great
- Installation is easy
- Amazing performance
- Incredible power boost
Cons
- Installation takes a lot of time
- Not designed for Y-pipe use
- Before they can fit, you will need a bit of modification
04. BBK 4009 1-3/4″ Shorty Tuned Length Exhaust Headers
Highlighted Features
- Made from top-quality material
- Comes with all the necessary installation components
- Chrome finish & durable
BBK is made from top-quality material. It is designed to last long and as well offers an impressive increase in the sound and overall performance of the engine.
If you seek a replacement but you have a tight budget, this is the perfect header replacement choice for you.
It comes with gaskets and other installation hardware that you need.
Also, the installation is very easy. All you need is to bolt it to the right position and you are done.
The installation time and process are faster and easier than the first three we have discussed so far.
This appearance of the header is impressive, thanks to its chrome finish. This is an excellent product you will like.
Without making necessary modifications to the ex pipe flange, it won’t fit well into your truck.
Also, you may need to move a bit higher during installation to prevent heat damage.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Improves engine’s overall performance
Cons
- Modification is needed before it fits into your truck
05. For Dodge Charger/Magnum Chrysler 300C
Highlighted Features
- Top-quality stainless steel
- Durable, Built for strength
- Comes with all the hardware for installation
This header is one of the top-quality products you will see on the market. It is made from high-quality stainless steel which offers durability and strength.
If you are thinking of rebuilding your engine, this is the perfect product for you.
In the kit are all the necessary hardware and components you need for installation, and the process of installation is very easy.
The header comes at a very reasonable price, and the outcome in terms of performance and the overall increase in the efficiency of the engine is commendable.
This header eradicates leaks and fits decently into your truck.
The bolts in the kit do not fit this header. If you are out of budget, you may have to improvise to make sure they fit into the header.
And if you can afford to purchase new bolts, you may have to just do that.
Asides the identified issue, it offers an improvement in performance.
Pros
- Improves the performance of the exhaust
- Enhances the efficiency of your engine
- Eradicates leaks
Cons
- The bolts do not fit well into the header
06. BLACKHORSE-RACING Long Tube Exhaust Headers Kit
Highlighted Features
- 2 exhaust headers and gaskets
- Comes with the hardware
- Allows efficient flow of air
- Improves the efficiency of the exhaust system
Another model Blackhorse comes with gaskets and as well as two exhaust headers.
The kit comes with all the hardware you need for the proper and successful installation.
This exhaust header brings about an improvement in the quality of the engine and as well improves the sound.
Also, it allows the free flow of air into the engine, and as well allows the release of excess exhaust with ease.
If you are looking for a better way to improve the efficiency of your exhaust system, it offers all you need at a very reasonable price.
In summary, this header eradicates any form of restriction to the engine of your truck to ensure your truck performs extraordinarily.
Blackhorse does not come with an installation guide. If you have never fixed an exhaust header before, we advise you to allow a technician to do the fixing.
Pros
- Improves engine life
- Amazing performance
- No leaks
Cons
- No installation guide
07. Gibson GP311S-C Ceramic Coated Performance Header
Highlighted Features
- Made of high-quality steel stainless
- Attractive appearance
- Amazing ceramic finish
- Allows free flow of air
- Perfect fit for Hemi RAM
Gibson is well built and is made from high-quality steel stainless. It is very attractive, thanks to its amazing ceramic coating.
It is a product you will fall in love at first sight.
Gibson GP311S-C is designed in a way that allows an adequate flow of air, which has a direct impact on performance and engine life.
The header brings about an increase in horsepower, and it as well enhances the torque.
If you need a header replacement for you Hemi RAM (Both 1500 and 2500 models) that are manufactured between 03 and 08, this is a perfect fit for you.
In summary, Gibson comes in three different finishes to allow buyers to pick the one that complements their trucks.
The price is a bit high, but you will get a great quality product in exchange for the high price.
Pros
- Increases engine life
- No leakages
- Very easy to install
- Has all the needed installation hardware
Cons
- Expensive product
08. PaceSetter 70-2211 Long Tube Exhaust Header
Highlighted Features
- Top-quality product
- Comes with two gaskets
- Comes with all the hardware for installation
- Allows free flow of air
- Ceramic finish
This is another top-quality header for your 5.7 Hemi RAM if you are looking for a very affordable product that doesn’t compromise quality.
This product is made from high-quality material, which enhances performance and durability.
If you drive the Dodge RAM 1500 made between 2003 and 2007, this is a perfect header replacement for your truck.
The ceramic coating gives it an amazing appearance you will fall in love with.
The kit comes with all the needed components and hardware for installation, and the process of installation is direct.
You don’t have to be a professional before you can install it on your truck.
It offers amazing improvement when it comes to the flow of air into the engine, and it as well allows the efficient release of exhaust from the engine.
In summary, the header improves the overall performance of your vehicle without having to break the bank.
Although this header comes with new gaskets, they may not be the best quality.
We advise you to invest in a top-quality gasket so that you can get the best out of this header.
Pros
- Easy to install & Affordable
- Improves the engine life
- Improve the overall performance of your vehicle
Cons
- The gaskets that come with it are of average quality
09. JBA (6961SJS) 1-7/8″ Silver Ceramic Exhaust Header
Highlighted Features
- Made from top quality stainless steel
- 30 additional horsepower
- Ceramic coating
- Top-quality hardware for installation
JBA is one of the newly introduced exhaust headers on the market.
To have found its way to our compilation of best headers for 5.7 Hemi RAM within its short time of being introduced to the market, that should communicate one simple thing to you, “Quality.”
The header is made of great quality material, and it is configured to release efficient power, where is it expected to deliver an amazing outcome.
It improves the engine life of your vehicle and as well enhances the overall performance.
The installation is very easy, and it comes with all the needed components and hardware you need for a successful installation.
When you install it, you are guaranteed up to about 30 additional increases in horsepower.
Before we forget, it as well upgrades the sound of your vehicle.
In terms of price, it is a bit expensive, but you will get value for what you pay for.
Also, the installation is carried out through welding, and you may need to modify the exhaust system.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Amazing performance
- Improves engine life
Cons
- Expensive
- Exhaust system modification
10. Hooker 2457HKR Competition Header
Highlighted Features
- Premium design
- Top-quality steel
- Durable and fits properly
- Enhances exhaust flow
- Not affected by heat
Hooker header is known for the performance it offers in terms of value. If you are a value-conscious 5.7 Hemi RAM owner, this is a product that is designed for you.
It comes with a lot of impressive features, and these features are known as premium designs.
Impressively, they are offered at a very competitive rate. Installation is easy, and it comes with all the hardware you need.
Also, it is made of high-quality steel, which delivers durability and top quality.
The header makes use of extended transition collectors, and the job of this component is to lower back pressure and as well as enhance the exhaust flow.
It is not affected by heat, and it offers consistent performance. Make sure you avoid the use of header wraps, as it may lead to rust buildup as a result of excessive heat and moisture gain.
Pros
- Consistent performance
- Easy to install
- Affordable price
Cons
- Doesn’t support the use of header wraps
Buying Guide
What is the best exhaust header for 5.7 Hemi Ram?
While there are many exhaust headers for your 5.7 Hemi Ram, there can only be one champion. And for us, that champion is the BBK (4014) 1-5/8 inches exhaust header.
Why is BBK 4014 the best header for 5.7 Hemi Ram?
We found that it is best when it comes to combining power and sound. Designed to offer excellent results, the BBK 4014 has the most leak resistance ability than others.
Additionally, the BBK 4014 header is made to last for a long time while delivering amazing power output.
In terms of appearance and finish coating, it offers 3 various options – stainless steel, silver ceramic, and chrome. This means that there is always an option to best suit your truck.
Among short and long tube headers, which is the best?
While this question is one that is very common, it’s important to state clearly that the answer depends on some factors.
Many people believe that long tube headers are the best since they tend to decrease backpressure. But this is a misconception.
For anyone with a turbocharged vehicle looking for a header to use, the best option would be a short tube header.
On the other hand, long tube headers are perfect for scavenging. Also, headers with long tubes tend to improve a truck’s horsepower as well as offer solid peak power.
In case you have plans of upgrading your vehicle, you are better off with long tube headers.
But, if what you want is to win a race in a competition, short tube headers will increase your chances of winning.
What are The Best Brands of Headers For 5.7 Hemi Ram?
BBK and JBA are the best quality brands you will find on the market for 5.7 Hemi ram headers. With a strong beasty performance, they provide an extra-long life for your exhaust.
Important Factors to Look Out for Before Buying the Best Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram
Having gone through the 10 best headers for your 5.7 Hemi Ram, it’s time to check out some of the things that determine a good header.
Although we have gone into details to list out the best headers you should choose from, we also want to ensure that you don’t make the wrong buying decision.
We that being said, the following are buying considerations you should take note of:
Compatibility
This is a no brainer. You cannot just jump into the conclusion that a particular header is the best for you without first checking if it’s compatible with your vehicle.
In fact, this is the very first step you should check for so that you don’t end up wasting your time.
Failure to do this or skip this step might result in a header that will either not fit your truck but may call for some modification.
Although the headers we mentioned in this review are all compatible with your 5.7 Hemi Ram, you are free to double-check if it is the right fit from Amazon.
And if you are confused, you can always call the manufacturer’s customer care or reach out to the seller.
Installation
It is true that you don’t necessarily need to do the installation of your header yourself, but it pays if it is something you can do on your own.
The reason it is important to check how easy the installation is in case you want to do it by yourself.
Not only will you derive joy that you did it yourself but will also save some money in the process.
Luckily, the headers we reviewed in this article are reasonably easy to install. Some of them even come with instructions on how to go about it.
And once you have the right tool, you will find that you have all it takes to replace your old header.
It is a good idea to always check customer reviews of a header you are interested in.
You most likely will get some suggestions on the easiest and quickest way to go about it from others.
However, if you are such that don’t really mind getting the help of a mechanic to install it for you, then you don’t have to worry about this part.
Sturdy Construction
This is another important factor to look out for. When you consider the fact that replacing your truck’s header does not come cheap, you will definitely take your time to find out how sturdy it is.
To avoid replacing your header very often, do well to check for this.
Also, a header with sturdy construction tends to last longer and withstand pressure as well as external heat that leads to breakage.
The products we listed out for you in this review are made with sturdy construction to last you a long time.
Quality Material
Without any argument, making sure the header you are interested in buying is made of top-notch material like stainless steel is nothing but a no-brainer.
Talk about a corrosion-resistant header and the first thing that comes to mind is the one made of stainless steel.
Other materials like ceramic, chrome, painted and uncoated still have their benefits. Just make sure you find out what the header is made of before buying.
Horsepower
Most truck owners if not all will always opt for a product that will give them more horsepower.
This improves your truck’s strength and gives the impression of being a very powerful vehicle. And so, if a header is said to increase your truck’s horsepower, you may want to go for it.
Price
Price is another thing you will most definitely consider when buying a new header. While the most expensive header does not necessarily mean that that header is the best, there is no argument that good headers come at a price.
Instead of settling for a poorly made header because you cannot afford the best at the moment, wait a little while, save up and buy the best.
But if you can still find a header that is durable, increases horsepower, efficient, well-welded, is corrosion-resistant, and has other qualities a good header should have at an affordable price, you should go for it.
Design
And finally, the design of a header can tell a lot about the product. Some header designs are simple and therefore allow better airflow.
Also, it makes installation straightforward. A header that comes with a long transition collector usually decreases backpressure better than its opposite.
While at it, makes sure the header’s design will help you get the best performance from the product.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Headers for 5.7 Hemi Ram
Having dealt with the things you should look out for when buying a header, it’s time to clear some questions you may have about headers for your 5.7 Hemi Ram.
Below are some of the questions we received from our readers. We, therefore, thought it would be nice to answer them to help you in your quest for a new and effective header.
Let’s dive right in, shall we?
Is 5.7 Hemi Ram reliable?
The answer is yes! It is a solid engine compared to previous engines that came before it. You may notice some ticking sound coming from the valvetrain.
But this shouldn’t be an issue since it does not affect your vehicle or your ride experience and quality.
Will headers add some horsepower to my vehicle?
Yes, the headers can add some horsepower to your truck’s engine. Because headers work to get rid of exhaust from your truck’s engine, it then cleans up the air for more space.
This is why you will notice an increase in horsepower when you install a new header. Also, the more powerful your new header, the higher the torque you will get.
How much horsepower can I get from my long tube header?
The Hemi Ram originally comes with 434 horsepower at 6,100 amps or alternatively, 4,500 at 439 pounds.
Therefore, you may be able to get about 3000 to 6,300 increase. You should note that the number of RMP range that is added to your vehicle’s engine is determined by the tube header length.
Simply put, this can mean an increase of 15-20 hp.
Can a 400 head be put on a 350?
Yes, it can. But do not make the mistake of putting 350 heads on a 400 without first drilling some steam holes.
Different Types of Finishes Used in Constructing Headers
While most of the headers in this review are high-performing stainless steel headers, we also thought you should know other options there are.
We shall be looking at stainless steel, cast iron, traditional steel, and titanium header finishes.
Stainless Steel
This is considered the best option because it has good resistance to corrosion. If you are looking to invest in a good header for the long-run, this is the header to go for.
Although stainless steel headers do not rust, they usually turn blue when exposed to heat for a long time. You will notice this, especially where you have the head flange.
For this reason, if your vehicle’s engine usually runs on high temperature and high rpm for a long time, it is advisable that you go for a stainless steel header with ceramic coating.
But if that is not the case, a stainless steel header alone without the coating will still serve you effectively.
Cast Iron
One thing with cast iron headers is that they are relatively cheaper when compared to the stainless steel header.
They are also not made for every vehicle. The major advantage case iron headers have over other headers is that they tend to soak up heat effectively.
This is good news if you are worried about emissions. Or if you don’t want the heat to get to other parts of the engine. But, bear in mind that they are the heaviest type of headers you can find.
Traditional Steel
Traditional steel is another header you can find. Like cast iron, they are only made for some select vehicles. Because they are made of steel, they are susceptible to rust over time.
This is why we advise anyone interested in such headers to go for the one with coating.
That way, the coating will protect the steel from moisture and corrosion for high engine temperatures. It can be coated with durable ceramics or other chrome options.
Bear in mind that steel headers that are coated or painted will need a retouch after some time to protect them from rust.
If you will prefer to coat the steel with a high-temperature coating by yourself, then you can go for an uncoated traditional steel header.
Ceramic coating is your best option if you want a coating that will resist high heat.
Titanium
There is a reason we left titanium for the last. Apart from the fact that it is the best among the four, it is not very common.
Titaniums are usually used for jet engines and aeronautic parts. They have high strength when compared to a header made of stainless steel.
They are also the lightest in weight. The best part is that titanium construction can withstand high temperatures more than others.
And it has good corrosion resistance capability. While titanium headers may be the best, they are not always available which is why you are better off with a stainless steel header.
Summing up the discussion on the types of materials used in the construction of headers, here are some points to note.
First, engines that run on high temperatures and high RPMs for a long time are better off with a stainless steel header coated with ceramic. This is the best combination for durability.
Secondly, a traditional steel header will rust over time except it is coated with a high-temperature coating.
And thirdly, iron cast headers may not be that attractive or durable, but they are very good at soaking up the heat.
However, no matter the material used in the header you are going for, just make sure it has a substantial head flange so that there are no issues of exhaust leaks.
Also, making sure that the welds are of high quality is an added advantage.
It is also important to note that no engine works in isolation – the effectiveness of a header or any other component in the vehicle is dependent on how effective other parts are.
A Verdict of Headers For 5.7 Hemi Ram
All the listed headers on this list are known for their top quality and performance.
They are designed to enhance power and to improve the sound and overall performance of your truck.
In the end, whatever design you wish to go for, you are qualified for top-notch service delivery.
Before you make a purchase, do not forget to make your finding to know if your choice of product is compatible with your truck.