I wanted to share an experience I had with Hedman regarding my coated headers. I bought the headers new about a year ago and they have developed some discoloration and rust pitting. this happened eventhough my car is far from complete and the only time on the motor is initial break-in, tuning time and some very short trips through the neighborhood. I called Hedman to explain what was going on and see what I could do. The first question I was asked was whether or not I used the headers during break-in. I told him I did and he said that is what caused the problem. Somehow, I managed to miss the warning to not use coated headers for engine break-in. To make a long story short, they offered to re-coat the headers for no charge (except shipping) because I was honest about my mistake and didn't try to BS them. It was a great experience with a happy outcome. Based on this, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend their products to anyone. Just thought I would pass along the info in case anyone else has a similar problem.

I had the exact same experience, used them when i broke in my new motor, burned the coating where the tubes turned down. hedman recoated them sent them back to me free of charge, even though it was my mistake. David

That is good to know. I have a set ready to be put on my new motor. What causes this with a new engine during break in?

I was told by Hedman that the cause is usually from a motor that is not properly tuned; either it is too lean or the timing too far retarded. Both cause abnormally high exhaust gas temperatures (the headers actualy will glow red) which changes the chemical/thermal properties of the coating.

I noticed the warning during installation and called Hedman. I told them that I didn't have a spare set of headers for the break in of my ZZ4 and was told to use two large fans on them during start up. I was also told that a new engine creates and burns off the gases hotter that a seasoned engine. I will try the fans but it’s good to know they will recoat if necessary.

My Dynomax's didn't have this problem.....that's strange.

I also have hedman headers and used mine for break in, I guess I should read that piece of paper that comes with stuff, I think it is called instructions, anyway, I guess I was lucky, but later, I am going to go over mine just to be sure.

i tried the fan trick, it didn't work for me