Took the CJ7 (aka morphodite) out for an hour. Drove up some long hills and it did better than before. After a 6 mile climb up an average grade of 5% water temp was 220. Turned around and came down the hill and it cooled off to 200 pretty fast.
First time I've made it all the way up the climb without stopping in fear of blowing up the engine.
Much improved after the new radiator.
Next step- install flat tube fenders
Considering wrapping the headers to decrease under the hood temps.
What do you think about wrapping the headers?
Listed below are some pros and cons to to consider if you decide to coat or wrap your headers.
In my personal experience with wrapping headers you will be surprised just how fast they will rust out and this was on a modded mustang. So it never seen a water crossing or large puddles.
Ceramic Coated Headers
Ceramic Coated Exhaust Parts
This is a spray-on finish that’s infused with heat-insulating ceramics. It is not a DIY solution, these exhaust parts are coated at the factory, or sent to a facility with the proper equipment.
Pros
Provides the biggest horsepower gains when compared to other exhaust insulation methods Reduces under-hood temperatures better. The ceramic coating is applied evenly on both the inside and outside of the exhaust pipes, preventing “hot spots” that can cause metal fatigue Improves the laminar flow of your exhaust gasses Prevents rust and corrosion of the ceramic coated parts.
Ceramic Coated Headers
Cons
High-quality, ceramic coated exhaust parts are more expensive Manufacturers use a special process to apply the coating. While the coating is durable, the part will have to be sent back to them for repair if you manage to chip it Coatings may dull in appearance over timeHeader & Exhaust
Exhaust Wrap
This is a fiberglass or composite fabric that wraps around, and insulates, exhaust system components. It is a DIY solution that can be added to nearly any exhaust part, stock or aftermarket. ProsAdds a few extra horsepower when used on stock or performance pipesReduces under hood temps, prolonging the life of fragile engine parts and hosesEasy to install and more affordable than buying ceramic coated partsCustom wrap anything you wantHeader & Exhaust Wrap
Heatshield Lava Exhaust Wrap
Cons
Only insulates the outside of exhaust partsExhaust wraps may absorb moisture from the road and cause rusting if your tubes aren’t made from stainless steel
This prolongs the life of hoses, wires and other temperature-sensitive accessories under the hood.
