When I installed the TOGs on my 95, I only had to cut the top off the shock mount to clear the lower primary. It still functioned fine. Although there is a difference in the steering rack clearance on my 95 vs foghorn'*, I'm sure I have the same shock mount as the 96-99 crowd.
I was also able to retain the EGR??
Overall, the quality of my TOGs was great.
And FWIW, my engine was pushed back to the firewall in my crash. The downpipe flex section bowed significantly but did not crack.

Bill, I dont feel that im being put out by my post. I had a legitimate question regarding the two different brands of headers, and I posted it.

My introduction to headers was when you installed them on your car. After that, the only other header we spoke about that I recall were the TOG'* that I questioned. You did say you liked their design better which gave me some direction with what to go with since you have already experienced the SLP'*

Now, because the SLP'* dont particularly list for the Bonneville (even on INTENSE'* Site) and the TOG'* say they fit 98, I figured based on your likeness to their design and the fact that they fit 98, that I would go with them.

Then I saw this link in Matts post: http://www.wbodystore.com/grandprix/...ers-p-118.html and I posted my topic.

Prior to me purchasing the 97, I never really came into the performance section, which is why I probably didnt see the info or even think to search for the info regarding headers.

I was simply seeking other peoples opinions on what they have dealt with buying their headers or what other people might go with.

I got an email into Wbodysotre regarding the Pacesetters and I will post their reply.

:?

Not many would include NOS times as a 'daily driver' time. My car was setup to run the times it did anywhere, anyhow even after tanks and tanks full of 91 octane.

Anyway, either the SLP or TOGS are a fine known choice that does fit. It'* less work to install the TOGs. The issues of slip joints versus donuts is almost a wash though the flex on TOGs is somewhat less noisy.

I would be almost positive the Pacesetters will fit, but somebody will have to try them to be sure. As for the difference in W-body headers in an H-body, there'* plenty of room in a 96 to 99 Bonneville to accomodate the difference in downpipe location transversely. I would expect the Pacestters would need some creative welding of pipe sections at the bottom of the downpipe, just like the SLP and TOGs do.

Cheers,

Todd and Foghorn.. being long term header guys, it'* great to have you both on board and glad to learn more every day.

Sorry, by daily driver I meant "I drive it daily"

FWIW, The w-body store (and other distributors of Pacesetters) are posting that the Pacesetters will fit the Bonneville based on their experience with SLP and TOGs (I assume), since Pacesetter'* website does not list Bonneville (or any other h-body) as a fit, since they have not test fit any and have not been informed of anybody that has put them on.

I mentioned to my friend at Pacesetter about the claims the W-body store made and he simply stated that they are making an assumption at this point until someone completes an install.

Currently, Pacesetter offers their set-up only with the large primaries and a 3" downpipe and collector as can be found in the link posted.

They are in the process of developing a smaller set for N/Aed and less moded SCed W-bodies with smaller primaries and 2.5" downpipe/collector. This is the set-up that I am purchasing and have volunteered my Bonne as a test car for fitment.

Latest information says they should be avaiable in late March.

For anyone interested, here is the area the TOGs hit. I took about a 1/4" off the top for them to clear.

Good picture, that'* exactly what I had to do, ended up removing the flange at the top of the bracket.

Cheers,

At the risk of sounding like a broken freakin' record, this is still a great thread for those of us interested in learning about the application of headers on our cars!

Thanks to everyone who is contributing!