KevinGS

One was S&S, one was a custom one I saw at SRT...but they were both definitively loud, for sure.

TeeLex

iTrader: (24)

Absolutely - there was a definite, noticeable increase in power with the S&S headers before I made up the custom mid-pipe. Especially mid-range, made the car much more fun to drive for me. The mid-pipe was done to make sure I was getting the best breathing for my NA car. The mid-pipe added some power, too, but not as much as the headers. Together I would estimate ~25HP increase ( this is estimated off the 17-18HP observed from a dyno run on 430 motor with the S&S headers ).

Overall I'm quite pleased with the SRT Intake/S&S Headers/custom mid-pipe set-up on my GS430. The 3.76 LSD also helps this combination ( as it will all GS4's ). For now, I can live with this performance.

V8Lexus

TeeLex, so the SRT intake IS worth the 450? where do i order the S&S headers from? all hardware included with gaskets? is this something i can do in my garage? Anyone here from southern california that can recommend a few shops that i can have install the torque converter and LSD?

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

V8Lexus,

Be aware that neither the SRT Intake/ECU nor the S&S Headers are CARB legal devices and will make passing smog inspection on your car impossible unless you have alternative means.

V8Lexus

dave, ah ive given up on both of them for various reasons, i dont want to pay the ridiculous amount of $ to install the S&S headers and being as difficult to install as they are i dont feel like doing it myself. and with the SRT intake, i read that after a while the gains disappear as the main computer ECU learns around the lean curve that the SRT intake causes. im going to do a K&N drop in, dragon torque convertor(PI), and the LSD and call it a day as far as those. maybe ill pick up a CPO nsx, s2000, or a wrx sti. but i dont think our GS's were intended with absolute performance in mind.

NoRyceGS4

No, they werent. Part of the reason I sold mine.

TeeLex

iTrader: (24)

Hard to say about the SRT Intake - I like the sound ( V8 roar ) and I'll take the minimal gains, even at a relatively high price. Keep in mind that people do exhaust upgrades, even with the insignificant power gains, for sound and looks. IMO the SRT intake will give you more than the aftermarket exhausts relative to gains.

I did the S&S header install myself in my garage. It's not an easy DIY, but doable with the right tools and patience. There's no question in my mind that the gains were worth the pain of the install. The S&S headers come with gaskets and hardware, but I would recommend the OEM gaskets and you'll need the header to cat gaskets and cats to mid pipe gaskets. I also replaced the self-locking nuts just to be sure. You can get the S&S headers from here: http://l-tunedparts.com/product/?id=2103

GSing430

I personally think the SS headers were worth it, it feels more responsive and fun to drive. i also feel that it make more of an improvement over the 400 w/ SS headers and this is base on driving 2 other gs400 with ss headers, you feel more torque w/ the 430 as my VSC easily goes off. i know the labor is hard on the wallet but you can afford it then do it. no regrets