Header Bolts Keep Coming Loose!!

HandyCappedkid · 10-20-2003

I have shorty headers on my car from the previous owner. I noticed one day that the bolts were loose and one was missing. So I tightned them down and they must have wiggled themselves loose again.

I have been looking at Stage 8 locking bolts. Does anybody use them or have an opinion on them, b.c. I'm not sure if I even need them. The bolts that are on my headers now may just suck.

So I wanna know if I need to get locking bolts or if I should just get some hardened bolts.

marks86gt · 10-20-2003

Bolts come loose due to heating and cooling and vibration. Get the locking bolts and don't worry about it again. The stage 8's are grade 8 bolts which is more than adequate for the application. Also replace the header gaskets with Mr. Gasket copper gaskets while you are at it.

HandyCappedkid · 10-20-2003

Ok, sounds good to me. Thanx

5literChevyEatr · 10-21-2003

and use teflon tape on the bolts, they will never come loose

Twister · 10-21-2003

I agree with the locking bolts, however I would use fel pro gaskets, I have had NOTHING but bad luck with Mr. Gasket

GhostDog 5.0 · 10-21-2003

I dont like FMS gaskets or Mr gasket. I bought fel pro and I never had to retighten the bolts with my gt40p headers and heads. I have arp SS header bolts. The FMS bolts look wimpy.

89Stang5.0 · 10-22-2003

i can also say I never had a problem with Fel Pro gaskets.....But here is something you should try before you go and spend money on new bolts..
Tighten all the botls
Then drive around
Let engine cool down
Tighten again
Repet process 3 times to 4 times....
Should clear things up completly....it did for me...

Mack Daddy · 10-22-2003

I used Locktite..the red kind...dont have a problem anymore.

Twister · 10-22-2003

never use lock tite if you have aluminum heads, you need anti seize on any bolt in aluminum heads, or you will never get them out

5literChevyEatr · 10-23-2003

I ve had three different headers in 3 yrs, and i keep rusing the FMS gaskets i think there the best