Mazda B2600 4WD 1986-1988 2.6L 4G54 Astron Advance Exhaust Headers A342

Advance A342 headers (extractors) are designed for the early Mazda B2600 4WD from 1986-1988 fitted with the Mitsubishi-sourced 2.6L 4G54 Astron SOHC 8-valve carburettor petrol engine.

A342 features a heavy-duty press-bent interference design suited to standard and mildly modified street engines. The design is intended to provide strong usable torque while improving exhaust flow, throttle response and overall engine performance.

IMPORTANT: This application is for the early 4WD B2600 fitted with the Mitsubishi 4G54 Astron engine only. It does not suit the later Mazda 2.6L G6 engine.

Gasket included.

Please check availability and current lead time before ordering.

Key Features

• Suits early Mazda B2600 4WD models
• 1986-1988 application
• Suits Mitsubishi-sourced 2.6L 4G54 Astron petrol engine
• SOHC 8-valve carburettor engine application
• Interference design for street performance applications
• Suitable for standard and mildly modified engines
• Heavy-duty construction
• Press-bent header pipes
• Gasket included
• Australian Made

Construction

Advance A342 headers feature heavy-duty press-bent construction and an interference design developed for durable street and 4WD applications.

Press-bent headers use a traditional manufacturing method where the tubing reduces slightly through the bends. This construction has been widely used for Australian street and commercial vehicle headers and provides a strong, durable header assembly.

Additional Options

Please contact Best Mufflers for current availability and advice regarding compatible exhaust components for your Mazda B2600.

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Mazda
• Model: B2600
• Series: Early UF-series application
• Year Range: 1986-1988
• Engine: 2.6L / 2555cc 4G54 Astron
• Engine Type: SOHC 8-valve four-cylinder
• Fuel System: Carburettor
• Fuel: Petrol
• Drive: 4WD only

Important Engine Identification: Early B2600 models used a Mitsubishi-sourced 2555cc 4G54 Astron engine. Later B2600 models changed to Mazda's own 2606cc G6 engine. A342 is specifically for the early 4G54 Astron application and should not be ordered for the later G6-powered B2600.

Header Specifications

• Part Number: A342
• Brand: Advance Headers
• Design: Interference design
• Construction: Heavy duty
• Pipe Forming: Press bent
• Application: 4WD only
• Quantity: 1 header assembly
• Gasket: Included
• Manufacture: Australian Made

Fitment Notes

A342 suits the early Mazda B2600 4WD fitted with the 2.6L 4G54 Astron SOHC 8-valve carburettor engine.

This application should not be confused with later B2600 models fitted with the Mazda G6 2.6L engine. The later engine is a different design and requires a different exhaust manifold/header application.

Because these vehicles are now several decades old, confirm the engine and existing exhaust configuration before ordering. Engine conversions and previous exhaust modifications are common.

What's Included

• 1 x Advance A342 header assembly
• Gasket

Note: The supplied Mazda B2600 A342 information specifies a gasket is included. Bolts should not be assumed to be included unless supplied with the current product.

Recommended With

Please contact Best Mufflers if you require advice on compatible exhaust components or installation parts for your Mazda B2600.

Why Good Headers & Exhaust Systems Matter

The 2.6L 4G54 Astron four-cylinder engine theoretically draws approximately 5,200 litres of intake air per minute at 4,000 rpm at 100% volumetric efficiency.

Once combustion has taken place, the hot exhaust gases occupy substantially more volume as they travel through the exhaust system. Using an illustrative exhaust temperature of approximately 600°C, this represents around 15,600 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. Trial-fit the headers and check clearance around the chassis, steering, front drivetrain, transmission and suspension before completing the exhaust connection.

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 system for exhaust leaks and recheck accessible fasteners where appropriate.

Warranty & Compliance

Installation should comply with applicable Australian state or territory requirements relating to exhaust noise, emissions equipment where applicable, and vehicle modifications.

FAQ

Is this product currently available?
Availability and lead times can vary. Please check availability and current lead time before ordering.

Does A342 suit the Mazda B2600 4WD?
Yes. A342 is specifically listed for the early Mazda B2600 4WD fitted with the 2.6L 4G54 Astron engine.

What engine does this header suit?
It suits the 2555cc Mitsubishi 4G54 Astron SOHC 8-valve carburettor petrol engine used in early B2600 4WD models.

Does A342 suit the later Mazda B2600 2.6L engine?
No. Later B2600 models used Mazda's own 2606cc G6 engine. A342 is specifically listed for the earlier Mitsubishi 4G54 Astron-powered B2600.

Does A342 suit a 2WD B2600?
The Advance application specifically lists this Mazda B2600 application as 4WD only. Do not assume fitment to a 2WD model.

Are these headers mandrel bent?
No. The supplied Advance A342 specification describes these headers as press bent.

Is a gasket included?
Yes. The supplied B2600 A342 product information specifies that a gasket is 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

For phone orders, advice, or part enquiries – contact us: