Holden Commodore VL 1986-1988 3.0L RB30E Advance Exhaust Headers A216

Advance A216 headers (extractors) are designed for the Holden Commodore VL 1986-1988 fitted with the naturally aspirated 3.0L RB30E EFI inline six-cylinder petrol engine.

These Australian-made headers feature an interference design intended for standard or mildly modified street engines, with an emphasis on improving exhaust flow and useful low- and mid-range torque.

A216 is designed to allow the vehicle's catalytic converter to remain in its original position, making it particularly suitable for street applications where the original emissions-system layout needs to be retained.

Gaskets are included.

Please check availability and current lead time before ordering.

Key Features

• Suits Holden Commodore VL
• 1986-1988 Australian application
• Suits naturally aspirated 3.0L RB30E engine
• 2962cc EFI inline six-cylinder application
• Interference header design
• Designed for street performance applications
• Allows catalytic converter to remain in its original position
• Gaskets included
• Heavy-duty construction
• Press-bent construction
• Australian Made

Construction

Advance A216 headers are Australian Made and feature heavy-duty, press-bent construction.

The interference header design is intended for standard or mildly modified street engines, providing a practical balance of exhaust flow and torque for everyday performance applications.

Additional Options

Please contact Best Mufflers for advice on replacement exhaust components, catalytic converters and installation parts to suit your VL Commodore.

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Holden
• Model: Commodore
• Series: VL
• Year Range: 1986-1988
• Engine: 3.0L / 2962cc RB30E
• Engine Type: SOHC EFI inline six-cylinder petrol
• Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive

Engine Note: The Australian VL Commodore introduced the Nissan-designed RB30E 3.0L EFI six-cylinder engine. A turbocharged RB30ET was also available in the VL range; however, the supplied Advance A216 application information does not specify the turbo engine.

A216 should therefore not be assumed to fit VL Turbo / RB30ET applications. Please contact us if your vehicle is turbocharged.

Fitment Notes

Catalytic Converter: Advance specifies A216 with the catalytic converter remaining in its original position.

Because VL Commodores are now commonly modified, check whether the engine, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter or exhaust system has previously been changed before ordering.

If your vehicle has an RB30ET turbo engine, aftermarket turbocharger or turbo conversion, please contact us before ordering. A216 is being listed specifically for the naturally aspirated RB30E application based on the supplied Advance information.

What's Included

• 1 x Advance A216 header assembly
• Header/manifold gaskets

Bolts and other installation hardware should not be assumed to be included unless confirmed with the current product before ordering.

Recommended With

Before installation, inspect the existing catalytic converter, exhaust system, engine mounts and exhaust hardware. Contact Best Mufflers if you require advice on replacement exhaust components to complete the installation.

Why Good Headers & Exhaust Systems Matter

At 4,000 rpm, the 3.0L RB30E six-cylinder engine theoretically draws approximately 6,000 litres of intake air per minute at 100% volumetric efficiency.

Using an illustrative hot exhaust volume at approximately 600°C, this represents around 18,000 litres of exhaust gas per minute.

A well-designed header and exhaust system helps manage this high gas flow efficiently, reducing restriction and improving exhaust scavenging, torque, throttle response and engine performance.

Installation Tips

Professional installation is recommended. Before fitting, check the condition and position of the existing catalytic converter, exhaust system, engine mounts and associated components.

Lubricate threaded fasteners with WD-40 or a similar penetrating lubricant before removal to assist with easier removal and installation.

After installation and several heat cycles, inspect the exhaust system for leaks and recheck accessible fasteners where appropriate.

Warranty & Compliance

The vehicle's required catalytic converter and other emissions-control equipment must be retained and remain operational. Installation must comply with applicable Australian state or territory requirements relating to emissions, exhaust noise and vehicle modifications.

FAQ

What vehicle does Advance A216 fit?
A216 is designed for the Holden Commodore VL 1986-1988 fitted with the naturally aspirated 3.0L RB30E EFI six-cylinder engine.

What engine is fitted to the VL Commodore?
The naturally aspirated Australian VL six-cylinder used the Nissan-designed 2962cc RB30E SOHC EFI inline-six.

Does A216 fit the VL Turbo RB30ET?
The supplied Advance application information lists the A216 for the 3.0L RB30 but does not specifically list the turbocharged RB30ET. For this reason, VL Turbo fitment should not be assumed. Please contact us before ordering for an RB30ET vehicle.

Does the catalytic converter need to be moved?
No. The supplied Advance application information states that the catalytic converter remains in its original position.

Are gaskets included?
Yes. Gaskets are included with the A216 according to the supplied Advance application information.

Are bolts included?
The supplied A216 information only confirms that gaskets are included. Bolts should not be assumed to be included.

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.

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.

Customer Support

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