Heat From Headers

[LimaCharlie]

I'm interested in getting a set of headers for my Camaro but I'm concerned about the extra heat that is developed from headers. The factory LS3 manifolds have heat shields attached to them. The Z/28 shorty headers even have heat shields. I assume GM used the shields for a reason.
I've read multiple threads on here about random electrical wires/sensors/etc melting after headers were installed.
What are your observations/concerns on the heat? Is it something I really need to be concerned about?

[Camaro Dude]

Originally Posted by Apex Motorsports

As far as ceramic coating goes, it will help the headers cool off quicker after the car is turned off but they do not reduce under hood temps one degree. It is great for racers that make a pass then need to get under their hood before the next but it will not reduce temps in the engine bay or improve performance. Stainless Works did a back-to-back test on a GT40 replica that has a much tighter engine bay than the Camaro. They placed something like 14 temp sensors in the engine bay and there was no difference anywhere with the ceramic coated headers. The heat in the engine bay is coming from almost everything under the hood, not just the exhaust.

Hood vents will help A LOT. Even when the car isn't moving. You could thermal wrap or ceramic coat your intake manifold to help reflect heat rather than absorb it. Like Magnum mentioned, tuning can help a little.

Interesting quote above, by Apex I copy and pasted from elsewhere.

My personal observations, no issues with heat, post header install. Plug Wires still look great. I think this is, and has been the general consensus as well.

But I would feel better if I had vents like a '14+ hood.

[harner]

I added boots on my plug wires and some heat tape on a few things, otherwise I wouldn't be too concerned about excessive heat.

Get headers and don't look back.

[chevy 3]

I rapped my headers with header rap. This will bring underhood temps down. Some hood venting us a plus

[CamaroDreams76]

Well, I've have had plug wires burn due to heat from headers. My IATs rose an additional 3 degrees. As far as plug wires go, get what is recommended by the manufacturer of the headers. I use thermal boots on my current plug wires. I would feel better with vents in the hood.

[christianchevell]

Heat only matters to the Starter mainly, removing the middle section of the hood seal at the firewall with xacto knife can clear that at some.