Because it looks like a hand grasping the side of the engine block, those pipes running in an out of the cylinders were named "manifold." This comes from the Latin word manus, meaning "hand." The Chevrolet Cavalier engine has two manifolds, which, with a bit of imagination, do look a bit like hands cradling the engine. One manifold enters the cylinders. This is called the "intake," or "inlet." The other exits the cylinders, and is known as the "exhaust," or "header." The Chevrolet Cavalier header is literally the "head" of the exhaust system, and is made from heavy cast iron able to withstand the high heat of the burned gases exiting the cylinders.

Collecting these exhaust gases, it moves them into the Chevrolet Cavalier catalytic converter where hydrocarbon pollutants are removed. Once this happens, the remainder exits through the tailpipe (also known as the "tip") by way of the muffler.

There are two types of Chevrolet Cavalier header. Most engines, including the Chevrolet Cavalier, use the common collector style, which has those finger-like pipes merging into the collector. The other kind is known as a "zoomie" header, which does not have a collector and is used on racing cars. Headers are manufactured as after market items for the most part, and many auto manufacturers often use these as original equipment. Since the Chevrolet Cavalier has a small engine, one way to increase its horsepower is to install custom headers. You'll should know that we have special discount prices on a wide selection of custom Chevrolet Cavalier headers. Start here for the best deals on the Chevrolet Cavalier headers you need for that extra performance you want.