The inception of Kooks Headers & Exhaust traces back to 1962, when George Kook, fondly known as Papa Kook, ignited the legacy by fashioning his inaugural set of headers for his family's racing vehicle using a gas torch. With an unwavering commitment to racing, Papa Kook's talents garnered recognition from fellow racers in the local circuit, where he showcased his skills at various drag strips week after week. 

Over six decades later, Kooks remains resolute in its dedication to producing top-tier race headers and exhaust systems, steadfastly focused on the racing domain. From drag racing to circle track competitions, road racing, motorcycle events, and even offshore boat races, Kooks Headers has played a pivotal role in setting records and clinching victories. Renowned figures across NHRA, IHRA, NMCA, NMRA, NASCAR, SCCA, and NASA have consistently relied on Kooks headers, propelling themselves to championship glory. What began as humble origins has blossomed into a fully-fledged manufacturing facility under the guidance of George Kook Jr., where uncompromising quality and exceptional customer service remain paramount. 

At Kooks Headers and Exhaust, they cater to a wide range of production applications for late-model domestic automobiles. This means customers can effortlessly obtain a "custom" header tailored to their early or late-model vehicle at a fraction of the cost, conveniently delivered to their doorstep. Setting themselves apart, Kooks stands as the sole header company capable of offering headers for gas engine trucks while simultaneously crafting bespoke race headers for applications exceeding 3,000 horsepower. Pioneering the stainless steel header revolution, they've emerged as innovators in the exhaust industry at large, with their designs, tests, and manufacturing processes paving the way for others to follow suit.

Serving as the ultimate destination for all header and exhaust component needs, Kooks provides an array of services including mandrel bent tubing, welding, forming, notching, custom flange fabrication, specialty collector production, and a distinctive line of racing mufflers and tips. Additionally, they offer private label services for exhaust and tube bending requirements. As of 2023, all their endeavors are ISO Certified (ISO 9001:2015 Certified by NQA), ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance. Customers are invited to explore their Custom/Specialty page to initiate an application and delve deeper into their offerings.

We've been installing Kooks Headers & Exhaust on our Lethal Performance builds for over a decade and are extremely proud to be an authorized distributor for their whole line of high performance, premium quality exhaust components. We just installed a set of their Kooks 1 7/8" longtube headers on our 800hp Whipple Supercharged 2024 Mustang GT and it sounds awesome. 

Whether you're shopping for headers for your S650 Mustang, S550 Mustang or F150 5.0L or even looking for an axleback for your Ford Bronco 2.7L, Kooks has a stainless steel exhaust setup for your application, made right here in the USA. 

Looking for something specific? Give us a shout! Our sales & tech representatives can help guide you to the right exhaust setup for your build.

About the Author

Christy, better known as Cougs, has been part of #teamlethal since 2008. When she’s not with her better half, Alex, at a Drag & Drive racing event or posted up at a brewery, she’s enjoying a horror flick or crafting a new costume for the Mustang King.