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If you drive a 2009–2018 Ram 1500, a failing exhaust manifold can cause noise, poor throttle response, and reduced fuel efficiency. Choosing the right 2009-2018 Ram 1500 exhaust manifold matters because fitment, heat shielding, and material quality all influence drivability and long-term reliability. This guide lists the top shortlisted options for the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 and explains the practical tradeoffs to consider. We evaluated each pick for fit accuracy, thermal performance, and durability so you can focus on the parts that are most likely to solve common manifold problems. Read on for the key decision points and installation considerations before you select a replacement.
Looking for other parts? See all Ram 1500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Certified Automotive Experts Ram 1500 5.7L Shorty Headers (304 Stainless) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Pacific Performance Engineering Shorty Exhaust Manifold Set for Ram 1500 5.7L |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | A-Premium Right Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gasket, Bolts and Nuts |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | SMMS Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gasket and Hardware |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | ZHRUIHAN Left Exhaust Manifold Kit for 5.7L V8 (left side) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Dorman 674-922 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | BD Diesel Exhaust Manifold Kit for 5.7L HEMI (2009–2018 Ram 1500/2500/3500) |  |
Certified Automotive Experts Ram 1500 5.7L Shorty Headers (304 Stainless)
| Compatible vehicles | 2009–2018 Ram 1500 5.7L; 2019–2024 Ram 1500 Classic 5.7L old body style |
|---|---|
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
| Includes | Steel-clad fiber gaskets and installation hardware |
| Fitment note | Fits 2WD and 4WD; not compatible with 2019+ new body Ram 1500 models |
These shorty headers replace the cracked or leaking cast exhaust manifolds on 5.7 Hemi Ram 1500 trucks with polished 304 stainless steel units that bolt to the factory cylinder head locations and mate to the OEM catalytic converter position. They are intended for daily-driven trucks where longevity and resistance to corrosion and thermal fatigue matter more than maximum power gains. Construction uses mandrel-bent tubing, thick laser-cut flanges and welded primary joints to improve sealing and durability, and the kit includes steel-clad fiber gaskets plus hardware for a mostly straight swap. Installation is direct-fit in most cases but some owners report tight bolt access and occasional fitment or weld quality issues, so expect a moderately challenging install and to double-check flange sealing after torque. These headers retain the factory emissions layout and do not require cutting or fabrication, making them a practical upgrade for fixing ticking noises, broken manifold bolts, and exhaust leaks while keeping stock exhaust routing.
Best for: Buyers who want a long-lasting, factory‑style replacement to eliminate manifold cracking, ticking, and leaking while preserving the original emissions and exhaust routing.
Less Ideal for: If you prioritize maximum horsepower gains, custom exhaust routing, or an easy DIY install with perfect fitment every time, consider performance headers or professional-fit alternatives.
- Direct bolt-on design that connects to the OEM catalytic converter location without cutting or welding
- 304 stainless steel construction offers better corrosion and thermal fatigue resistance than cast manifolds
- Includes gaskets and installation hardware for a more complete replacement kit
- Mandrel-bent tubing and laser-cut flanges intended to improve sealing and long-term durability
- Some users report difficult bolt access and fitment challenges during installation
- Occasional weld or sealing defects have been reported, so inspection before installation is recommended
Verdict: A durable, direct‑bolt stainless replacement for cracked 5.7 Hemi manifolds that preserves factory emissions layout while improving long‑term reliability.
Pacific Performance Engineering Shorty Exhaust Manifold Set for Ram 1500 5.7L
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Primary tube size | 1-5/8" |
| Flange thickness | 7/16" |
| Includes | Gaskets and hardware |
| Fitment | 2009–2018 Ram 1500 5.7L; 2019–2023 Ram 1500 5.7L Classic |
These PPE shorty exhaust manifolds replace the cast factory manifolds with 1-5/8" polished 304 stainless primaries, a laser-cut flange, and CNC mandrel-bent tubing to reduce backpressure and improve throttle response. They install as a direct bolt-on and include new gaskets and hardware, plus a slip-fit collector designed to mate with factory or aftermarket mid-pipes, so you can keep the stock exhaust or upgrade further. In real-world use expect crisper throttle response, a modest bump in exhaust note, and potential gains in fuel economy when driven aggressively. Build quality aims for durability against warping, but some buyers have reported welding and fitment issues, so careful inspection and trial-fitting are advised before final installation. These are shorty-style headers, so they prioritize packaging and ease of fitment over the scavenging and peak-power gains of long-tube designs. If you want a straightforward bolt-on improvement for street-driven Hemi trucks, these deliver the most value; if you need maximum top-end power or perfect factory-level fitment without modification, consider other header styles or vendors.
Best for: Buyers focused on better throttle response, improved sound, and durable factory-replacement hardware for everyday and spirited street driving on 2009–2018 Ram 1500 5.7L trucks.
Less Ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking maximum top-end horsepower from long-tube headers or customers unwilling to address potential minor fitment or weld issues should look at alternatives.
- 304 stainless steel construction resists warping and corrosion
- Mandrel-bent 1-5/8" primaries and laser-cut flange improve exhaust flow over cast manifolds
- Direct bolt-on design with included gaskets and hardware simplifies installation
- Slip-fit collector compatible with factory or aftermarket mid-pipes for flexibility
- Shorty design limits scavenging and peak high-rpm power compared with long-tube headers
- Some reported fitment and weld-quality issues that may require correction before final installation
Verdict: A straightforward stainless shorty header set that gives Rambox Hemi owners clearer throttle response and a stronger exhaust note with minimal modification.
A-Premium Right Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gasket, Bolts and Nuts
| Material | Cast Iron |
|---|---|
| Fitment Type | Direct Replacement |
| Includes | Manifold, inlet gasket, bolts, nuts, heat shield |
| Manufacturer Part Number | APEMD181D |
This A-Premium right-side exhaust manifold is a direct-replacement style part made from cast iron and supplied with a gasket, bolts, nuts and heat shield. It is intended to restore a warped or cracked passenger-side manifold on late-model Rams with the 5.7L or 6.4L V8 and is typically used to stop exhaust leaks and the common "hemi tick" caused by failing manifold hardware. The cast-iron construction offers good heat resistance and should match the factory fitment for the listed model years, making installation straightforward for a professional shop or competent DIYer. Several buyers report easy installs and noticeable elimination of ticking noises, though some users found the supplied gasket or bolts did not align or were the wrong length and needed replacement. The kit does not include manifold studs, so plan to reuse or source those separately if required. Overall it is a budget-friendly option that restores exhaust sealing and function, but expect to verify hardware fitment and have a few extra fasteners on hand during installation.
Best for: Buyers looking to restore a noisy or leaking passenger-side manifold on Ram trucks who prioritize a cost-effective, factory-style replacement and are willing to check hardware fitment during installation.
Less Ideal for: Those who want a performance exhaust upgrade, a full stud-and-fastener hardware kit, or a guaranteed drop-in fit without inspecting supplied parts should consider other options.
- Cast-iron construction designed for high temperature resistance and durability
- Includes gasket, bolts, nuts and heat shield for a more complete repair than manifold-only options
- Matches factory-style fitment for listed 5.7L and 6.4L Ram V8 applications to simplify installation
- Affordable replacement that several owners report eliminated exhaust ticking noises
- Some buyers reported gasket or supplied bolts did not fit correctly and required replacement
- Manifold studs are not included in the kit
Verdict: A budget-friendly, factory-style right-side replacement that reliably stops exhaust leaks and the common "hemi tick" when hardware fitment is verified before installation.
SMMS Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gasket and Hardware
| Material | Cast Iron |
|---|---|
| Includes | 1 manifold, 1 gasket, 2 bolts, 2 nuts |
| Port Shape | Oval |
| Replaces Part Numbers | 674922, 68045559AA, 53034137AC, 68045559AB |
This SMMS exhaust manifold kit is a straightforward factory-style replacement made from cast iron and supplied with one gasket, two bolts, and two nuts for installation. It is intended to restore exhaust routing and sealing on affected 2009–2018 Ram 1500, Ram 2500/3500, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen, and Jeep Grand Cherokee models that use the listed part numbers. In practice the cast-iron construction helps resist warping and cracking under normal engine heat, and the included hardware saves a trip to the parts store. Fitment is OEM-replacement oriented so it is typically used during exhaust repairs after manifold cracks or gasket failures. Expect basic, durable performance rather than performance gains. Buyers should note this is a direct replacement part and not a high-performance header, and corrosion protection or surface finish beyond machined faces is not emphasized in the listing.
Best for: Buyers looking to repair a cracked or leaking exhaust manifold on a budget who prioritize a direct, factory-style replacement that installs with minimal additional parts.
Less Ideal for: Shoppers seeking increased performance, improved exhaust scavenging, or specialized corrosion-resistant finishes should consider upgraded headers or coated aftermarket manifolds instead.
- Includes gasket and basic mounting hardware for a one-stop replacement
- Cast iron construction designed to resist warping and cracking under heat
- Designed to match factory fit and port shape for straightforward installation
- Not a performance header so it will not increase exhaust flow or power
- Listing gives limited detail on coatings or corrosion protection
Verdict: A budget-friendly, cast-iron factory-style manifold kit that gets a leaking or damaged exhaust manifold replaced with minimal fuss.
ZHRUIHAN Left Exhaust Manifold Kit for 5.7L V8 (left side)
| Brand | ZHRUIHAN |
|---|---|
| Model | FDJQG-0043 |
| Exterior | Stainless Steel |
| OEM Part Number | 674-922, 53034137AC, 68045559AA, 68045559AB 101478 |
This left-side exhaust manifold kit replaces the factory manifold on 5.7L V8 Rams and related vehicles and is built from stainless metal to resist heat, corrosion, and warping. It routes exhaust gases away from the engine, restoring proper exhaust flow and helping the engine run smoothly after a failed or cracked original manifold. The kit is sold as a direct replacement and is intended for bolt-on installation using existing mounting points and included gaskets and hardware shown in the product images. In practice the stainless construction should hold up well to high underhood temperatures and road corrosion, offering a reliable long-term fix for exhaust leaks or cracked flanges. Limitations include the need to confirm exact trim fitment before buying and that professional installation may be required if corrosion or seized bolts are present on the vehicle. The part references factory numbers for matching but buyers should verify compatibility with their specific 2009–2018 Ram 1500 model and engine configuration prior to installation.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a durable, long-lasting repair for a leaking or cracked exhaust manifold on a 5.7L V8 Ram and want a straightforward replacement that aims to restore factory exhaust function.
Less Ideal for: If you need a performance-oriented aftermarket header or a universal multi-vehicle part, this factory-style manifold is not the best choice; also avoid if you cannot confirm exact trim fitment.
- Stainless steel construction resists heat, corrosion, and warping
- Designed as a direct replacement to match factory mounting and exhaust routing
- Includes gaskets and hardware shown for a more complete installation
- References common OEM part numbers to simplify fitment checks
- Fitment must be confirmed against vehicle trim because range covers multiple years and models
Verdict: A stainless-steel direct replacement left exhaust manifold built to provide a durable, factory-style repair for 5.7L V8 Rams.
Dorman 674-922 Driver Side Exhaust Manifold Kit with Gaskets and Hardware
| Position | Center |
|---|---|
| Model | 674-922 |
| Exterior | Machined |
| OEM Part Number | 101478; 53034137AC; 68045559AA; 68045559AB |
This Dorman driver-side exhaust manifold is a direct replacement intended to restore a leaking or damaged factory manifold on compatible Dodge, Ram, Jeep, and Chrysler models from the covered years. It ships as a complete repair kit with gaskets and downpipe fasteners so you can perform a one-stop replacement without sourcing extra parts. The casting and machined exterior aim to match factory mounting points, and many buyers report straightforward fit and quieter operation after installation. Common issues noted in user feedback include inconsistent quality control for the supplied gasket and flange bolts; several installers replaced the gasket or used different bolts to get proper flange engagement. The part is backed by Dorman’s testing claims and covers CARB-compliant designs for some states, making it a practical, lower-cost alternative to a factory replacement, but expect to verify fitment carefully for your exact trim and to possibly swap the supplied gasket or bolts during installation.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize documented user experience and want a cost-effective, ready-to-install replacement manifold that restores exhaust sealing and quiet operation while accepting occasional minor fitment tweaks.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a perfect plug-and-play, factory-identical hardware set without any verification or parts swapping should consider higher-end replacement options or dealer parts.
- Complete kit includes gaskets and downpipe hardware for a single-order repair
- Machined exterior and factory-matching mounting points simplify installation
- Widely compatible with specified 2009–2018 Dodge, Ram, Jeep, and Chrysler applications
- Lower-cost alternative to factory replacement parts
- Included flange bolts and gasket have inconsistent fit quality and may need replacement
- Some units reported threaded flange holes that differ from factory design
Verdict: A budget-friendly, full-kit replacement that reliably restores exhaust sealing on covered Ram 1500-era applications if you double-check fitment and be ready to swap the supplied gasket or bolts when necessary.
BD Diesel Exhaust Manifold Kit for 5.7L HEMI (2009–2018 Ram 1500/2500/3500)
| Engine fitment | 5.7L HEMI |
|---|---|
| Vehicle fitment years | 2009-2018 Ram 1500/2500/3500 |
| Material | High-silicon ductile iron |
| Includes | Gaskets and fasteners |
This BD Diesel exhaust manifold kit is a direct replacement designed for 5.7L HEMI Ram trucks from the 2009–2018 era and aims to solve the common problems of warped manifolds and broken mounting bolts. The kit includes painted, high-silicon ductile iron manifolds with thicker ribs, longer fasteners with spacers, separate heat shield mounting points, and all gaskets and hardware needed for installation. In practice the heavier construction resists thermal cycling and warping that cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises, while the extended fasteners and spacers help prevent bolt shear during expansion. Installation is described as straightforward and many users report a near OEM fit and noticeably quieter operation after the swap. Downsides are the added heft and cost compared with thinner replacement manifolds and occasional reports of missing fasteners in some shipments, so inspect the kit before starting the job. For a risk-averse owner wanting a long-lasting fix rather than repeating repairs, this kit prioritizes durability and reliability.
Best for: Buyers who want a durable, long-term repair for a ticking or leaking 5.7L HEMI exhaust manifold and prefer a factory-quality replacement that reduces the need for repeat repairs.
Less Ideal for: If you prioritize the lowest upfront cost or are building a performance exhaust with nonstock headers, a lighter or specialty option may be a better choice.
- High-silicon ductile iron construction reduces warping from thermal cycling
- Thicker, ribbed design and separate heat shield mounting improve long-term durability
- Includes longer fasteners, spacers, gaskets, and most hardware for a complete swap
- Designed to fit 5.7L HEMI Ram trucks with near factory alignment for easier installation
- Heavier and more expensive than thin aftermarket replacement manifolds
- Some customers reported missing bolts in individual kits, requiring parts verification
Verdict: A robust, factory-quality manifold kit that stops the common 5.7L HEMI exhaust leaks and broken-bolt failures so you can avoid repeat repairs.
Choosing the Right 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Exhaust Manifold: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Bolt Pattern
Correct fitment is the most important factor for the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 exhaust manifold because misaligned flanges or incorrect bolt patterns lead to leaks, broken studs, and added installation time. Verify that mounting holes, port spacing, and collector orientation match the factory exhaust and cylinder head interface.
A precise fit reduces the risk of exhaust manifold leak symptoms after installation and lowers the chance of needing to swap exhaust manifold hardware or reroute components. If an option lists vehicle-compatible casting numbers or explicitly references the 2009–2018 Ram 1500, that increases confidence in fit.
Material and Corrosion Resistance
Manifolds are typically cast iron or tubular stainless steel, and the choice affects durability and thermal behavior. Cast iron resists cracking from thermal cycling but can be heavier; stainless steel is lighter and resists rust but can be prone to stress cracking if poorly designed.
For a workhorse truck like the Ram 1500 that may see road salt or heavy use, corrosion resistance and quality coatings matter. Look for materials or finishes that explicitly reduce surface corrosion and help maintain flange flatness over time.
Thermal Management and Heat Shields
Exhaust heat impacts nearby components, intake air temperature, and cabin comfort. Manifolds with integrated heat shields or that are designed to accept OEM shields help control radiant heat and protect wiring, hoses, and the intake manifold area on the 2009–2018 Ram 1500.
Good thermal management can also reduce the chance of exhaust manifold crack formation from extreme temperature swings and maintain sensor readings within expected ranges.
Sealing and Gasket Interface
How the manifold seals to the head and to downstream exhaust affects leak risk. The flange flatness, gasket surface finish, and recommended torque sequence all influence whether an exhaust manifold leak appears soon after installation or after thermal cycling.
Pay attention to whether a product includes a compatible gasket or requires a specific OEM gasket. Poor sealing increases exhaust noise and can trigger downstream symptoms such as elevated under-hood temperatures or changed sensor readings.
Oxygen Sensor and Emissions Port Compatibility
Many 2009–2018 Ram 1500 configurations use oxygen sensors or other emissions-related ports near the manifold. Ensure the replacement manifold provides the correct threaded ports in the right locations so sensors remain accurate and emissions functions are preserved.
Incorrect sensor placement can cause error codes, poor engine performance, or the need to rethread or adapt fittings, which complicates installation and may affect legal emissions compliance in some jurisdictions.
Installation Complexity and Hardware
Installation considerations include access to the manifold, required specialty tools, and whether studs, nuts, or gaskets are included. Some manifolds require removing accessories or the exhaust crossover to gain access on the 2009–2018 Ram 1500, increasing labor time and installation cost.
Check if replacement hardware is supplied and whether the manufacturer recommends replacing studs or bolts during installation. Simpler installations reduce the chance of improper torque or missed steps that could lead to leaks or premature failure.
Common Exhaust Manifold Symptoms to Watch For
Identifying symptoms early helps prevent collateral damage. Typical signs of a failing exhaust manifold on the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 include a ticking or tapping noise during cold starts that changes with engine load, reduced throttle response, or a strong exhaust odor in the engine bay.
You may also notice decreased fuel economy or intermittent misfires if exhaust leaks affect oxygen sensor readings. Addressing symptoms promptly can avoid warped flanges, cracked manifolds, or damage to nearby components.
- Tapping or ticking noise that varies with engine RPM
- Smell of exhaust fumes under the hood
- Uneven idle or reduced throttle response
- Check engine light associated with oxygen sensor codes
Diagnosing an Exhaust Manifold Leak on a Ram 1500
Start diagnosis with a visual inspection for soot marks around flange joints, broken studs, or visible cracks. Listen for changes in exhaust noise close to the manifold while an assistant increases and decreases engine RPM.
A more detailed approach includes using a smoke source or a hand-held infrared thermometer to spot hot spots along the manifold and flange. When testing, take care to avoid burns and follow safe practices such as letting the engine cool before handling hardware.
- Look for soot or carbon deposits at flange edges
- Use sound and heat checks while the engine is running
- Inspect studs and nuts for corrosion or elongation
Gaskets, Studs, and When to Replace Fasteners
Replacing the gasket and fasteners during manifold replacement is often good preventive maintenance. Gaskets can harden and lose sealing ability over time, and studs can corrode or stretch, making proper torque difficult to achieve.
If hardware is corroded or the studs are weakened, replacing them minimizes the chance of recurring exhaust manifold leaks. Use proper thread treatment and torque values specified for the Ram 1500 to ensure a lasting seal.
- Always inspect and often replace gaskets when installing a new manifold
- Replace rusted or stretched studs to ensure correct torque
- Use anti-seize or thread locker per service recommendations
Installation Tips for a Smooth Swap
Prepare by gathering the correct gasket set, replacement studs if necessary, and the recommended torque wrench. Work methodically, tightening bolts in the specified sequence and in incremental stages to avoid distorting the flange.
If access is tight, support components that must be moved and protect hoses and wiring. After installation, re-check torque after a few heat cycles to account for initial seating and thermal expansion.
- Hand-start all fasteners before final torque
- Tighten in manufacturer-recommended sequence and steps
- Re-torque after a few heat cycles to maintain seal integrity
When to Consider Upgrading Materials or Designs
If you use the Ram 1500 for towing, heavy loads, or in corrosive environments, opting for higher-grade materials or improved thermal coatings can extend component life. Certain manifolds are designed with thicker flanges or reinforced collectors to resist cracking under heavy thermal cycling.
Upgrades that improve heat dispersion or include sensor-friendly ports can reduce long-term maintenance. However, weigh benefits against installation complexity and ensure any changes maintain proper emissions sensor placement.
- Choose reinforced designs for heavy-duty use
- Consider coatings that improve corrosion resistance
- Verify sensor ports and flange geometry before committing to an upgraded design
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ram 1500 configuration to see the most relevant Exhaust Manifolds recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Exhaust Manifold
We prioritized items that address the specific demands of the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 platform, focusing on criteria owners care about most. Primary evaluation points included fitment accuracy to factory mounting points and flange alignments, material and coating choices that affect heat resistance and corrosion protection, and thermal management features such as integrated heat shields or provisions for retaining OEM shields. We also considered emission and sensor compatibility to ensure components do not interfere with existing oxygen sensor threads or exhaust routing. Durability factors included casting or fabrication quality, fastener locations, and recommended torque specs where available. We excluded products that did not provide clear fitment data for the 2009–2018 Ram 1500 or that lacked specifications about materials and sensor ports. We also filtered out options that required major modifications to exhaust routing or engine accessories. In short, qualifying items were those with clear vehicle-specific fit notes, robust thermal properties, and straightforward installation paths for typical DIYers and professional installers alike.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
What are the most common causes of exhaust manifold cracks on a 2009–2018 Ram 1500?
Cracks often result from repeated thermal cycling that stresses the metal, corrosion from road salts, or impact damage. Poor flange sealing that allows hot exhaust gases to escape can accelerate cracking over time.
Can I install a replacement manifold myself on a Ram 1500?
Many owners can perform the swap with basic mechanical skills and the right tools, but access to some manifolds can be tight and may require removal of adjacent components. If you are unsure about torque specs or sensor reinstallation, seek professional assistance.
How can I diagnose an exhaust manifold leak without specialized equipment?
A visual inspection for soot, listening for ticking noises that change with RPM, and feeling for exhaust fumes (with caution) can reveal many leaks. A handheld infrared thermometer can also help identify hotspots if you have one.
Do I need to replace gaskets and studs when replacing the manifold?
It is usually recommended to replace gaskets and any corroded or stretched studs during the job. Fresh gaskets and hardware improve sealing and lower the chance of having to rework the installation later.
Will a leaking manifold affect engine sensors or performance?
Yes. Leaks near oxygen sensors can skew readings, causing fuel trim errors, rough idle, and reduced fuel economy. Address leaks promptly to avoid additional diagnostic complications.
How long should a well-made exhaust manifold last on this truck?
Lifespan depends on material, driving conditions, and maintenance. With good corrosion protection and proper installation, many manifolds last several years, but exposure to road salt and heavy towing can shorten their service life.
Final Verdict
When replacing an exhaust manifold on a 2009–2018 Ram 1500, prioritize accurate fitment, thermal management, and a reliable sealing interface. Consider material choices and whether upgraded coatings or reinforced designs are justified by your typical use such as towing or frequent highway driving. Replacing gaskets and worn fasteners during the swap reduces the chance of recurring leaks. Focus on the factors that match your use case and installation capabilities to select the best option with confidence.
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- Check out all Ram 1500 parts & accessories
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