im probably going to go with pacesetter headers even though ive heard they fit like crap,it could be fixed with a little custom work and I think theyre no more than $600 for the set

 

Pacesetters are like half that price. So are SSACs and speed daddys

 

What kind of performance difference will I get by going straight to headers instead of just downpiping?

 

Headers include a downpipe. A 3" one if you play your cards right. Plus larger primaries than a Plog, in some cases.

 

Headers flow more than a plog and downpipe setup. I am turboed so I have custom headers for turbo application and I'm not real familiar with the header brands for the sc platform.

It would have to be a speed shop or anyone with hp tuners that can turn off the rear o2.

 

the way I see it on headers is they all do the same thing,some are just built better but in the end they all increase airflow,you could get headers,180tstat,CAI,oversized radiator from zzp and you should be able to drop a small size in your pulley and run colder spark plugs,i think this should be a good way to start off

 

Alright so if I go with headers what are cheap ones that are fairly easy to install. I'm not super good with cars but I have an uncle that is and will probably have him help me however I don't want to deal with a bunch of modifying and tweaking to get the headers to fit if I don't have to

Also how do I scan for KR? Will the shop I take it too to get tuned be able to scan or do I need to get a scan tool for it? If so what tool should I get?

 

You won't need a oversized rad. I'm making over 500whp on stock rad.

The dyno shop can scan for kr while tuning for sure. It's still a good idea to have a gauge so you can monitor it as well while driving the car. Look into getting a aeroforce interceptor scan gauge to monitor kr.

 

I like the Aeroforce Interceptor but $250 is a lot for me ATM . Is there anywhere I can get a used one, maybe ebay?

 

The best place to get a used one is on forums. But again, it will be used, and could have issues. Clubgp, grandprixforums.net, w-body.com are all possibilities to find a used one.