2.25" Stroker Exhaust Manifold / Exhaust System Recommendations

[etnlvn]

Good Evening All,

I'm spanking new to the forum but really excited about drawing from the community's knowledge and experience. I own an '06 Jeep TJ Rubicon with a recent, and perhaps inevitable, cracked head. I've made a few decisions: first, my old 4.0 is out. I'm replacing with a stroker. I've also decided to go with S&J Engines out of Spokane Valley, WA. I'm going with their updated head as well as the COMP Cams Xtreme 4x4, Hydraulic Flat Tappet; 205 Int./213 Exh. at 0.050 in., 0.450 Int./0.450 Exh. Lift;113 Lobe Sep 205/213; Torque/Throttle Improve; (EFI w/OEM Head), and the COMP Cams High Energy Timing Set. I think I have all, or at least most, of the related questioned resolved except, for the exhaust system. I'm less concerned about sound than I am providing the right amount of airflow. It's easier to find the right 2.25" exhaust system but not sure about which exhaust manifold to mate it up with. I've read too many negative articles about cracking in Banks exhaust manifolds to confidently pull the trigger on their product. I've looked at other exhaust manifold manufacturers but it can be overwhelming. So my question to the community is: what's your experience and/or recommendations for the ideal stroker exhaust system. Thanks in advance for your engagement.

[Cheromaniac]

It depends on the spec of your stroker engine. Ford a mild 4.6 that puts out up to 250hp (crank), a 2.5" exhaust from the header collector back would suffice.

[mpgMike]

If you are in California (or one of those other states with emissions requirements), you should probably use your stock manifolds. Having mandrel bends in the exhaust will reduce restriction. The specs provided suggest more of a low-end torque/fuel economy build. You won't need a bunch of flow; and in fact, a large diameter exhaust will hurt your usable RPM range power. Stock exhaust manifold should be adequate, even for a stroker. (I have a low-end torque 4.6 stroker in my '95 ZJ and use stock exhaust with no complaints.)