Rugged Ridge 17650.02 Performance Header in 409 Stainless Steel for 00-06 Jeep Wrangler TJ & Cherokee XJ with 4.0L

Header itself was perfect. No alterations and fit perfect on a 2005 Tj. Two suggestions when doing this job. Drop the forward section of exhaust because the underside intake bolts are super hidden. Second around cyl 4 underside intake bolt. Install and slight run in before header is installed. Bolt trapped by header and intake manifold can be slid in.
Dont expect any serious exhaust note changes. I think there is a little more barbel at idle.

Replace my stock exhaust manifold on my 2001 XJ with this. THIS IS NOT A CLEAN FIT AND REQUIRES MODIFICATION. I was not aware of the level of modification (trimming and shaving the thickness of the mounting surface) that was required and ended up having to take it to my mechanic so he could make it fit. The quality seems pretty high but the installation is a REAL pain.

The flanges that connect to the catalytic converters barely line up and you can't get the lower bolt for the intake manifold into the hole below cylinder 4 because of the bend in the header making the pipe run too close to the block and not leaving enough clearance for the bolt. Additionally, the exhaust piping for cylinder 3 and 5 are flattened for some unknown reason. Doesn't appear to be damage because the high temp coating is not damaged.

I should have known that I should have gone with something a little higher quality than Rugged Ridge. I will never be burned by their junk again! No to contact customer service to get a return authorization and new headers that actually fit my Jeep!