C5 Corvette American Racing Headers 1-7/8" Long Tube Header System (1997–2004)
For 1997–2004 C5 Corvette Coupe and Convertible owners, the American Racing Headers (ARH) 1-7/8" Long Tube Header System replaces the factory manifolds and mid-pipe section with a complete headers + X-pipe layout that connects at the rear axle connection point and then mates to your axle-back / rear exhaust section. It’s built to improve exhaust efficiency, sharpen throttle response, and deliver a more aggressive tone under load.
Choose Your Setup (Catted or Catless)
- Catted: Includes high-flow 300-cell catalytic converters for a cleaner, more street-friendly setup.
- Catless: Maximum flow for race-oriented builds (use where permitted).
- Year-group fitment: Choose the correct option for 1997–2000, 2001–2003, or 2004.
Part Numbers (Choose Your C5 Year Group)
- 1997–2000 — Catted: C5-97178300LSWC | Catless: C5-97178300LSNC
- 2001–2003 — Catted: C5-01178300LSWC | Catless: C5-01178300LSNC
- 2004 — Catted: C5-04178300LSWC | Catless: C5-04178300LSNC
ARH C5 1-7/8" Long Tube System – Product Details
- 1-7/8" primary tubes into 3" merge collectors with scavenger spikes
- 3" X-pipe mid-section included (catted or catless based on selection)
- 304 stainless steel construction with hand-ported TIG welded inlets
- 3/8" thick laser-cut flanges for a warp-free, long-term seal
- Optimized primary tube routing for strong fit and clearance
Benefits
- Improves exhaust flow for stronger pull through the rev range
- Sharper throttle response compared to restrictive factory manifolds
- More aggressive sound under throttle while keeping a clean, engineered system layout
- Complete system approach (headers + X-pipe) instead of mixing parts from different brands
Technical Specifications
- Header type: Long tube header system
- Primary tube size: 1-7/8"
- Collector size: 3" (merge collectors with scavenger spikes)
- Mid-section: 3" X-pipe (catted or catless); necks down to 2.5" at the rear flange to mate to OEM or aftermarket over-axle/axle-back
- Catted option: High-flow 300-cell catalytic converters
- Material: 304 stainless steel
- Flanges: 3/8" thick laser-cut
What’s Included
- Long tube headers (pair)
- X-pipe mid-section (catted or catless depending on selection)
- O2 extension harnesses (included and required to complete the install)
- Install hardware and gaskets
- Band clamps included where applicable
Installation Overview
This system installs as a complete headers + mid-section assembly. Typical installation includes removing the factory manifolds and mid-pipes, installing the ARH headers, fitting the X-pipe, then connecting at the rear axle connection point to mate with your axle-back / rear exhaust. A proper ECU calibration is recommended after installation for best drivability and performance.
Corvette Compatibility
- Fits: 1997–2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Coupe and Convertible
- Year group required: Select 1997–2000, 2001–2003, or 2004
What Customers Say
- Many owners like the “complete system” approach (headers + X-pipe) instead of piecing together different brands.
- Fit and fabrication quality are common reasons people choose ARH for C5 builds.
Custom Corvette Accessories is enthusiast-run, focused on correct fitment, fast nationwide shipping, and real-world Corvette ownership support.
If you want a premium, engineered header system for your C5 that upgrades the full path from the manifolds to the rear axle connection point, the ARH 1-7/8" Long Tube Header System is a proven solution for 1997–2004 C5 Corvette Coupe and Convertible applications.
Vehicle Fitment & Specifications
| Generation: | C5 |
| Model Years: | 1997 - 2004 |
| Trim Level: | Base |
| Engine Code: | LS1 |
| Transmission Type: | Manual, Automatic |
| Intended Use: | Street |