Holden Commodore VS 3.8L Ecotec V6 T5 Manual Headers – Wildcat WILD042M

Wildcat WILD042M exhaust headers (extractors) are designed for Holden Commodore VS models fitted with the 3.8L L36 Ecotec V6 and Borg Warner T5 manual transmission with cable-operated clutch.

WILD042M replaces the restrictive factory exhaust manifolds with smoother-flowing individual header pipes designed to improve exhaust gas flow and scavenging. Reducing exhaust restriction can improve usable torque, throttle response and overall engine performance while also giving the Ecotec V6 a stronger exhaust note.

WILD042M is specifically designed for the Borg Warner T5 manual transmission with cable-operated clutch. It does not suit the later Getrag manual transmission with hydraulic clutch. Installation requires cutting and joining the headers to the original factory Y-pipe, so professional exhaust installation is recommended.

Please check availability before ordering.

Key Features

• Designed for the Holden Commodore VS
• Suits the 3.8L L36 Ecotec V6
• Suits Borg Warner T5 manual transmission with cable-operated clutch
• Does not suit Getrag hydraulic-clutch manual transmission
• 1.50" (38mm) primary pipes
• 2.00" (51mm) ID outlets
• Designed to improve exhaust flow and scavenging
• Designed to improve torque, throttle response and engine performance
• Suitable for street performance and replacement applications

Construction

• Australian-made Wildcat performance headers
• Quality mild steel construction
• Strong welded construction for durability
• Heat-resistant painted finish rated to approximately 600°C
• Heavy-duty cylinder-head mounting flanges

Additional Options

• DSF083: Replacement exhaust manifold/header gaskets available separately
• WILD042A: Automatic transmission version
• WILD042MG: Getrag manual transmission version with hydraulic clutch

Vehicle Fitment

• Make: Holden
• Model: Commodore VS
• Engine: L36 Ecotec V6
• Capacity: 3.8L / 3791cc
• Transmission: Borg Warner T5 5-speed manual
• Clutch: Cable operated
• Application: VS models originally fitted with the T5 manual transmission

Fitment Notes

• Designed for Holden Commodore VS 3.8L Ecotec V6 models fitted with the Borg Warner T5 manual transmission
• Cable-operated clutch applications only
• Does not suit automatic transmission applications
• Does not suit Getrag manual transmission with hydraulic clutch – see WILD042MG
• Cut-and-join installation required
• Headers must be cut and joined to the original factory Y-pipe
• Professional exhaust installation is recommended
• Vehicle modifications, engine conversions, transmission conversions or non-standard engine mounts may affect clearance and fitment
• Replacement exhaust manifold/header gaskets – see DSF083
• Please check availability before ordering.

What’s Included

• 1 x Pair Wildcat WILD042M headers / extractors

Recommended With

• DSF083 exhaust manifold/header gaskets
• Replacement manifold studs and nuts where existing hardware is worn or corroded
• New exhaust hardware where required
• Professional exhaust installation for connection to the factory Y-pipe

Why Good Headers & Exhaust Systems Matter

At 4,000 rpm, the 3791cc Ecotec V6 draws in approximately 7,582 litres of intake air per minute and expels around 22,750 litres of hot exhaust gas per minute at approximately 600°C. 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

Apply penetrating lubricant such as WD-40 or similar to the manifold studs, nuts and exhaust fasteners before removal. Trial-fit both headers and check engine, transmission, steering and body clearance before making permanent modifications to the factory Y-pipe. Once alignment has been confirmed, cut and join the headers to the original Y-pipe. Professional exhaust installation is recommended.

Warranty & Compliance

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

Installation must retain the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors and any other emissions-control equipment required for the vehicle. Exhaust and emissions requirements vary between Australian states and territories, and the completed installation must comply with the regulations applicable in your state or territory.

FAQ

What vehicles do WILD042M headers suit?
WILD042M is designed for Holden Commodore VS models fitted with the 3.8L L36 Ecotec V6 and Borg Warner T5 manual transmission with cable-operated clutch.

How do I know whether I need WILD042M or WILD042MG?
If your VS uses the Borg Warner T5 manual transmission with cable-operated clutch, use WILD042M. If your vehicle uses the later Getrag manual transmission with hydraulic clutch, see WILD042MG.

Will WILD042M fit an automatic Commodore VS?
No. WILD042M is specifically for Borg Warner T5 manual transmission applications with cable-operated clutch. For automatic transmission models see WILD042A.

Will WILD042M fit a Getrag manual Commodore VS?
No. For the Getrag manual transmission with hydraulic clutch, see WILD042MG.

Are WILD042M headers a direct fit to the complete factory exhaust?
No. The headers fit the applicable engine and vehicle, but installation requires cutting and joining to the original factory Y-pipe. Professional exhaust installation is recommended.

What size are the WILD042M header pipes?
WILD042M uses 1.50" (38mm) primary pipes with 2.00" (51mm) ID outlets.

What exhaust gaskets are required?
DSF083 exhaust manifold/header gaskets are available separately and can be selected from the available product options.

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, 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