
Stainless Works 1-7/8 Inch Long Tube Headers with Catted X-Pipe for the 1997–2004 C5 Corvette LS1 and LS6
This Stainless Works long tube header setup is built for 1997–2004 C5 Corvette owners who want a complete header-and-center-section solution with a matched X-pipe and high-flow catalytic converters. Fitment is covered by two Stainless Works kits depending on your model years, and both are intended for the 5.7L LS1 and 5.7L LS6 C5 platform.
Stainless Works C5 Header Kit Product Details
- Vehicle: 1997–2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5
- Trim fitment: C5 Corvette Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), C5 Corvette Z06
- Engine codes: LS1, LS6
- System type: Long Tube Headers (header kit)
- Primary tube diameter: 1-7/8"
- Center section: 3" center section with X-pipe
- Catalytic converters: high-flow catalytic converters
- Material: 304 stainless steel
- Construction: TIG welded with thick, CNC-cut flanges
- Emissions hardware: includes AIR tubes and oxygen sensor provisions
Part Number Selection
- C5LS178CAT: Stainless Works 1-7/8" headers + catted X-pipe kit for 1997–2000 C5 Corvette
- C5LS103CATBT: Stainless Works 1-7/8" headers + catted X-pipe kit for 2001–2004 C5 Corvette
Why Stainless Works Leads
- Matched layout (headers + high-flow cats + X-pipe center section) designed as a complete C5 package
- 304 stainless construction and TIG-welded build intended for long-term heat-cycle durability
- Bolt-on design noted by Stainless Works for these kits (no cutting or welding required)
Benefits
- Creates a true long-tube foundation for C5 LS1 and LS6 combinations
- Includes the catted X-pipe center section so you’re not mixing mismatched mid-pipe parts
- Improves exhaust flow compared to factory manifolds and restrictive mid components
What to Expect After Installation / Use
Expect a stronger exhaust presence and a more aggressive tone than stock once long tubes and the catted X-pipe are installed. Header installs are typically labor intensive on the C5 chassis; plan for professional-level installation. Calibration needs vary by setup, and tuning is commonly performed after header changes.
Corvette Compatibility
- Generation: C5 Corvette
- Model years: 1997–2004
- Trim: C5 Corvette Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), C5 Corvette Z06
- Engine code: LS1, LS6
- Intended use: Street
What customers say: “The kit made it easy to plan the rest of my exhaust—everything lined up the way it should for my C5.”
Custom Corvette Accessories is enthusiast-run, focused on correct fitment, fast nationwide shipping, and real-world Corvette ownership support.
If you want Stainless Works 1-7/8" long tube headers with a matched catted X-pipe center section for a 1997–2004 C5 Corvette (LS1/LS6), choose C5LS178CAT (1997–2000) or C5LS103CATBT (2001–2004) and you’ll have the correct complete foundation.
Vehicle Fitment & Specifications
| Generation: | C5 |
| Model Years: | 1997 - 2004 |
| Trim Level: | Base, FRC, Z06 |
| Engine Code: | LS1, LS6 |
| Transmission Type: | Manual, Automatic |
| Intended Use: | Street |
Installation Instructions
Download PDF Installation InstructionsShipping Information
| Item Weight: | 58.1 lbs |
| Boxed Weight: | 64.8 lbs |
| Box Size: | 41.4 x 19 x 13.4 |