looking for tips on where to by and how i would go about installing headers in my 04 monte ss ( L36)

 

Any of the headers that fit the L67/L32 will fit the L26/L36. The exhaust manifolds are identical on all 4 engines, and they all use the same head casting.
This thread has a lot of good info on the 4 different header styles available. Right now, Speed Daddy headers are all the rage (they are SLP style headers, and sell for around $200 or so new) but aren't specifically listed in that thread.

As far as how to install...remove the downpipe, crossover, and manis. Install the headers. There are some slight variations between brands, but overall they are a pretty basic install.

 

Yep, lots of people like Speed Daddy (or whatever they're named now lol), just look on ebay

 

does anyone know if the speed daddy's have any known issues?

 

Speed daddy headers tend to hang lower with the downpipe. Id suggest you get the bend in it re welded before you install it, but if you arent lowered you should be ok.
The SSAC ones I have leaked a tiny bit and got a tick in the flex pipe, but they tucker nicely.

 

IMO, for an NA 3800- the S&S is your best bet. Smallest primaries, smallest DP outlet. You don't need big pipe headers on an L36 unless its boosted IMO.

I've seen them go used for cheap since the boosted guys don't want them (ie $200-250ish used)

 

as far as back pressure i was thinkin about having open heads with SLP res. will that give me a safe amount of back pressure

 

and nothing after the res? go with 2.5" exhaust and you'll be fine.

 

Open headers with just a single resonator- IMO its going to be way too loud and nasty sounding. You're not gaining hardly any power by not running a muffler, I'd add one just to bring the db down to a more tolerable range. Keep in mind the 3800's don't exactly sound the best, especially practically straight piped.