To Tether or not toTether the Header

[Kelly MacKay]

For you racers going to Epping in the spring, you will have to have your Headers Tethered.even with bolt on Collectors


All removable multipiece exhaust collectors/stacks must be securely fastened with either an NHRA-accepted header tether or a minimum ½” (half-inch) stitch weld located on each primary tube to prevent loss of collector/stacks during competition.
After much discussion on the topic, it has been decided that on cars with a complete exhaust system (including but not limited to mufflers, hangers, flanges, etc.) that are securely attached to the vehicle, header tethers will not be required. All other exhaust systems must conform to the rule as written. The current 2014 rulebook will be amended to reflect this change.

[mirada]

just measuring up for my teathers, also had to order a locking Trans dip_stick and a scatter shield, don't need to be sent home on my first attempt...

[Jeff Kempton]

Apparently the rules regarding header collector restraints have just been revised and for cars with an exhaust system alternate positive retention devices besides the tether systems are also acceptable.

SECTION 20: GENERAL REGULATIONS, ENGINE: 1, 1:3 EXHAUST (Page 3) (2/18/2014) All cars vehicles must be equipped with exhaust collectors, headers, or stacks installed to direct exhaust out of car vehicle body to rear of car, away from driver and fuel tank. No part of the exhaust system may be routed through the driver’s compartment. Exhaust collectors/stacks system components must be securely fastened (i.e., metal connector straps, bolted, welded, etc.) to prevent loss of collector/stacks system components during competition. Effective Jan. 1, 2014, All removable multi-piece exhaust collectors/stacks must be securely fastened with either an NHRA-accepted header tether, or a minimum ½” (half-inch) stitch weld located on each primary tube or be permanently attached to the vehicle body or frame with positive fasteners (i.e. exhaust hangers, support brackets, bolts/nuts, etc.) such that they require tools for removal to prevent loss of collector/stacks during competition. A current list of NHRA-accepted header tethers is available on NHRARacer.com.

[howes1387]

It is my understanding that we still need to have the restraints or welded on collectors and this amendment is only for vehicles with full exhaust.

[1979]

If I understand correctly,it appears to me that you can "bolt" on an extension from you collector if that collector was part of the original
header.By "bolt on", I mean the "three" bolt flange on the collector that was made as part of your headers.

[mirada]

Feb 20, 2014 20:12:58 GMT -4 howes1387 said:

It is my understanding that we still need to have the restraints or welded on collectors and this amendment is only for vehicles with full exhaust.

[mirada]

I think that's what its sayin....still somewhat blurry,Ill go with teathers to be safe.

[mhowes]

The rule is in place. It is what it is. Some have seen the nasty aftermath of a thrown collector.

Owning a Mopar means working on it so welding was out for me

Had great luck with Keith Fulp Motorsports.

Keith is easy to get a hold of. He has been attending D2 races already supporting all racers with parts even if they haven't bought from him.

His product is competively priced as well.

www.keithfulpmotorsports.com/

[ChipperChapman1090]

"All removable multi-piece exhaust collectors/stacks must be securely fastened with either an NHRA-accepted header tether, or a minimum ½” (half-inch) stitch weld located on each primary tube or be permanently attached to the vehicle body or frame with positive fasteners (i.e. exhaust hangers, support brackets, bolts/nuts, etc.) such that they require tools for removal to prevent loss of collector/stacks during competition."

So.....
Header Tether

OR
1/2" weld per primary

OR
Permantly Attached to body or frame with positive fasteners (i.e. exhaust hangers, support brackets, bolts/nuts etc)

There you have it in black and white and fuzzy NHRA jargon that $10 at napa just screwed you guys that bought tethers although I do agree the tethers look more professional.

[mhowes]

I'd be cautious of the 3rd option.

My understanding is that applies to cars with full factory exhaust only. Having said that your quoted rule does not clarify that.

Navigating NHRA/IHRA rules is difficult at times. And this is one of them.

But to spend a thousand to tow (fuel, entry, C12, groceries, beer) to Epping I'm not going to take the chance that I won't pass tech