Exhaust headers produce a lot of heat, particularly on cars that are modified. Heat robs power, and can also cause mechanical issues if it is left unchecked. A popular solution for reducing heat in a car's engine bay is by wrapping the headers in header tape. Wrapping headers is a relatively easy process that, when done correctly, cuts down significantly on heat.
Remove the headers from the vehicle if they are still installed. Consult your workshop manual for detailed instructions on how to remove them from your specific car.
Clean the headers with degreaser to remove any dirt, debris or oil. Dry the headers thoroughly after they are cleaned.
Spray the header wrap with water or soak in a bucket of water to ease installation and reduce the amount of fibers that come off of the wrap. Note: Not all header tapes should be soaked in water prior to installation. Consult the manufacturers specifications to make sure you can soak the header wrap with water.
Start wrapping the header on the end that is closest to the engine, which is also the end closest to the exhaust port. Wrap away from this point towards the exhaust tip.
Make the first wrap around the pipe so that it wraps fully around the header pipe. Tie the wrap with a special tie made for the wrap, or use a hose clamp to secure it. The manufacturer of the header wrap should have specially made ties available.
Continue wrapping the header, overlapping the wrap ¼-inch with every pass around the header pipe. Pull on the wrap to maintain tension so that the wrap is not loose.
Pull the wrap hard every two to three passes to maintain tension on the wrap.
If the header pipes start to get so close together that you cannot wrap the pipes individually, wrap the two that are closest together as one, using the same ¼-inch overlap.
Reinstall the header after it is wrapped.
