Toyota Cressida MX32 MX36 MX73 4M-E 5M-E Headers – Wildcat WILD288

Wildcat WILD288 exhaust headers (extractors) are designed for selected Toyota Cressida MX32, MX36 and MX73 models fitted with the 2.6L 4M-E or 2.8L 5M-E inline six-cylinder petrol engines from 1977 to 1986.

Featuring a tuned 3-2-1 interference design, WILD288 replaces the restrictive factory exhaust manifold with larger, smoother-flowing pipework. The 3-2-1 configuration is designed to improve exhaust pulse scavenging and maintain gas velocity, helping improve mid-range torque, throttle response and overall engine performance.

Key Features

• Designed for selected Toyota Cressida MX32, MX36 and MX73 models
• Suits selected 2.6L 4M-E and 2.8L 5M-E inline six-cylinder engines
• Tuned 3-2-1 interference design
• 38mm (1.50") primary pipes
• 51mm (2.00") secondary pipes
• 51mm (2.00") outlet
• Suits applicable manual and automatic transmission models
• Designed to improve exhaust flow, torque, throttle response and engine performance

Construction

• Australian-made Wildcat performance headers
• Quality mild steel construction
• Strong welded construction for durability
• Heat-resistant painted finish rated to approximately 600°C
• Precision mounting flanges for reliable sealing

Additional Options

• RBG288: Replacement exhaust manifold/header gasket available separately
• 51mm exhaust pipe and associated exhaust components can be supplied where required

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Toyota
• Model: Cressida
• Series: MX32 / MX36 / MX73
• Engine: 4M-E inline six-cylinder petrol
• Capacity: 2.6L
• Engine: 5M-E inline six-cylinder petrol
• Capacity: 2.8L
• Year Range: 1977–1986
• Transmission: Applicable manual and automatic models

Fitment Notes

• IMPORTANT: Check the cylinder head above the exhaust ports before ordering
• WILD288 will not suit applications with EGR pipes connected to the cylinder head above the exhaust ports
• Confirm your engine and exhaust manifold configuration before ordering
• Clearance should be checked where non-standard engine mounts, steering components or engine conversions have been fitted
• Modified vehicles should always be trial-fitted before final exhaust fabrication

What’s Included

• Wildcat WILD288 header / extractor assembly
• Gasket sold separately

Recommended With

• RBG288 exhaust manifold/header gasket
• 51mm exhaust pipe where required
• 51mm exhaust clamps and connections where applicable
• Replacement exhaust mounting rubbers and hardware
• Replacement manifold studs and nuts where existing hardware is worn or corroded

Why Good Headers & Exhaust Systems Matter

At 4,000 rpm, the 2.6L 4M-E engine draws in approximately 5,200 litres of intake air per minute and expels around 15,600 litres of hot exhaust gas per minute at approximately 600°C.

At the same engine speed, the 2.8L 5M-E draws in approximately 5,600 litres of intake air per minute and expels around 16,800 litres of hot exhaust gas per minute at approximately 600°C. A well-designed 3-2-1 header and exhaust system helps manage this gas flow efficiently, reducing restriction and improving exhaust scavenging, torque, throttle response and engine performance.

Installation Tips

Apply penetrating lubricant such as WD-40 or similar to the manifold studs, nuts and exhaust fasteners before removal. Trial-fit the headers and exhaust connection before fully tightening the system. Protect the painted surfaces during installation to minimise scratching or damage.

Warranty & Compliance

Wildcat headers are covered by the manufacturer's warranty subject to standard warranty terms and conditions.

For later vehicles within this application range, installation must retain any catalytic converter, oxygen sensor and emissions-control equipment required for the vehicle and comply with applicable state or territory regulations.

FAQ

What Toyota Cressida models does WILD288 suit?
WILD288 is designed for selected Toyota Cressida MX32, MX36 and MX73 models fitted with the 2.6L 4M-E or 2.8L 5M-E inline six-cylinder petrol engines.

What do I need to check before ordering?
Inspect the cylinder head immediately above the exhaust ports. If your engine has EGR pipes connected to the cylinder head above the exhaust ports, WILD288 will not suit that application.

Will WILD288 fit both manual and automatic Cressidas?
Yes. WILD288 is designed to suit applicable manual and automatic transmission models within the specified vehicle and engine applications.

What size are the header pipes?
WILD288 uses 38mm (1.50") primary pipes, 51mm (2.00") secondary pipes and a 51mm (2.00") outlet.

What gasket is required?
The recommended replacement exhaust manifold/header gasket is RBG288, available separately.

Do you ship to the USA?
Yes. Best Mufflers regularly ships exhaust systems and exhaust parts to customers throughout the United States.

Please note that import duties, tariffs, taxes, and customs clearance fees are not included in the product or shipping price. Once your order is processed and the applicable charges are calculated, we will send you a secure payment link to finalise the import duties and tariff charges before dispatch.

Can I pick up from the store?
Yes. Pick up is available but must be pre-arranged before collection.

How much is freight?
Freight varies depending on your delivery location and where stock is available. Please contact us for freight charges before ordering. Where possible, we can arrange dispatch from the nearest available product location to help reduce freight costs and delivery times.

Customer Support

For phone orders, fitment advice or product enquiries, contact Best Mufflers:

Call Now: +61 2 9547 3511 Email Us

Best Mufflers
87A Planthurst Road, Carlton NSW 2218, Australia
Monday–Friday 8:00am–5:00pm by appointment
Exhaust Systems Since 1983