Headers will improve things regardless of other engine mods.
And by "mods" I'm talking about compression changes, camshafts, porting work etc.
Or even forced induction....
Headers just plain work.
will they improve power? Probably
Will they improve torque? Yes
will this improve mileage? Very likely Yes even if you actually USE the power.
I doubt I'd be getting better than 20mpg in a 4x4 supercab with 4.10's
without the headers.
Catback systems make the truck sound different, but their improvement over
stock systems can be argueable. it depends on WHICH stock system you have
Or should I say: "which CHEAP aftermarket replacement muffler you have"?
Because some of the "replacement" mufflers are MUCH more restrictive than the factory muffler.
Yes, if "lowest bidder" parts screw something up
replacing those parts helps.
Now I could determine if the headers actually "Gain" both power and mileage if I were willing to put 3.55's in my truck, and thus compare my current truck to my brother's 4.0 supercab, but I'm not willing to do that, even in the name of "science"
From past experience 3.55's are "too tall" for best mileage froma 4.0 in a 4x4 supercab.
AD