"Mini-Header" on an 1996

I did a fair amount of searching with the "mini-header" as the term and I could not confirm for 100% that this will fit my 1996 3RZFE 4wd. Took my crappy/cracked/Chinese header to the yard that had a 2000 mini-header and it seemed like it didn't line up exactly (just did a quick stencil/outline comparison though) and I got spooked and didn't buy it.

So, anyone care to confirm this? Maybe with a "it's on my truck" validity?

Also, anyone know if this becomes an issue in California with Smog Cert? I can't imagine the smog guys would notice at all with all the surface rust on the header and heat shield.

Cheers!
rjones

 

I put one on my 96 2.7 w/ 4X4. Had no issues at all.

 

I installed the Factory mini header (2000-2004) on my 97 3RZ 4x4 Automatic. The header was designed for a manual transmission but fits the Automatic perfectly. The only mod was to use a longer spacer on the bolt that holds/bolts the trans dip stick tube to the block.
Also need the heat shield for the header from the 2000-2004 or many do not use one

 

Thanks for the replies. Anyone have any insight on the CA smog question?

Cheers,
rj

 

It's a California compatible part

 

It is not California compliant on on the trucks it didn't come with. I had the infamous cast iron crack and decided to get the mini header kit from DeathCougar. I learned this the hard way these were not CA compliant for my year truck and model(1999 2.4) when I didn't pass visual inspection. I even went to a smog referee to see if I can get it sorted out. Smog referee failed the test and would not sign off the "mini header" from the newer year 1st gens. It was a massive headache and got me docked on my smog record. Solution? Put on the damn heat shield when you go in for smog. I didn't order the the heatshield for the mini header and wish I did. I mickey moused the old one to fit for the test. Haven't had an issue when the heat shield is on because it looks more stock. Just beware though, a smog shop can technically fail you for tampered parts if they catch it on your truck.

 

Thank you this is the info that I was afraid of. Ended up welding the crack and putting the cast one back on before the smog test. Watched the smog guy carefully and he spent maybe 2-3 seconds of flashlight time on that side of the engine at all. I bet in this case you would have been correct, that if I had the correct heat shield on with the mini-header it would've been fine. Exhaust leak is gone for now so I guess I'll just leave the cast one on... lol...

Thanks again for all the replies.

Cheers,
rj