I don't have an old set? What does an engine do during break in that I don't want my headers on there?

really not as much of an issue with modern LS stuff. Older engines with flat tappet cams required a 30-45 minute 2500 rpm run in when first fired to break-in the cam. The higher exhaust temps with the car sitting still (no real airflow) will dull the header coating in most cases.

New LS stuff or roller cam engines don't need that break-in, so if the tune is okay there's no heat issues.

My stainless works headers uncoated still look good but the stainless Magnaflow exhaust system is rusting (cheap grade of stainless).

The key is to wipe them down with alchohol before you run the engine the first time. If they are coated, you bring it up to temp and shut it down and let them cool off. Coated or stainless, they are going to deteriorate cosmetically with miles.

Roller cam motors don't need breaking in... and if it's a crate LS3 just fire it off and go drive.

GREAT QUALITY SS headers are one thing.... not so great SS headers look nasty after awhile... so the answer is "all depends". Like many here - I like the look of good quality SS turning gold etc... but not so much the nasty stuff. They need coating.

The headers on my '32 are polished FOOD GRADE SS -- and when they first turned I didn't like it -- but I've gotten over that and now don't mind them colored.

What effect does wiping the headers down with alcohol produce?

It removes oils which would otherwise burn off and add to the tarnish.

In another thread someone mentioned treating them with rain-x, which others verified worked. Not sure what the science is behind it, and never tried it myself, but I'll be looking into it.

Here's the Akrapovic stainless header on my KTM SDR, only thing I've used on it is WD-40 which Akrapovic actually recommends. My regular cleanup routine involves wiping the exhaust system down with WD-40.
http://sieg.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/...49_F4G8R-L.jpg

http://sieg.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/...vk89f-XL-4.jpg
I'd say its decent stainless based on the coloration though it has seen very little wet weather usage.

Here's the header as new:
http://sieg.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/...02_RT6pz-L.jpg

Wow nice bike!

Thanks. Hopefully the exhaust condition helps answer your questions.