Best Header Bolts to use with Headers?

rjdcobra · 02-07-2007

i just bought some used BBK long Tube Headers and im wondering what Bolts every body is using for there headers. should i just use factory bolts or go with some aftermarkets? im not wanting any leaks of course or bolts that come loose after a while.

1995 Mustang GT · 02-07-2007

I have been told Stage 8 Locking Header Bolt Kits are the way to go look on summit the have them
http://static.summitracing.com/globa...stg-8911_s.jpg

**EagleAutosports** · 02-07-2007

I'd suggest going with copper gaskets, they have a bonded ring that conforms to the head and prevents leaks. Plus they don't blow out. If you go with ARP's, they're great but you might have to re-tighten them 2 or 3 times then they'll be fine. You can get some locking header bolts that uses a clip that holds the bolts head against the header tube and then an e clip to hold the clip on. They're definately what you want if you want to lock them down. I've worked with both, I have the ARP's now and they don't loosen up anymore.

GTS5.0 · 02-07-2007

Just put some BBK LT'son my car. I decided to pony up the dough and get the stage 8 locking bolts. They went on well. The first and last bolts on the drivers side were kinda a beech. I got them from summit. P/N FMS-M-9432-A51. I also used Percy's "dead soft" gaskets # PHP-66014. Take your time and you won't have to do it again. You will need to modify the dipstick to get it to work. I used a small tubing bender in a vice to get mine perfect. You will like the sound when you are done.

Vortex · 02-07-2007

Damn i wanted to be the first to suggest, but oh well... Stage 8... Thay got the tab that prevents loosening.. and as far as gaskets, it depends on the heads you have alum or cast. Although copper does have a neutral expansion rate.

Tominator · 02-08-2007

I bought hardened aluminum studs and 12 point nuts from an aircraft supply house. Self locking and they will never rust.

adriano_917 · 02-08-2007

MR.gasket, all i have to say.

Vortex · 02-09-2007

Addendum to what Tominator said, Locking nuts are fine as long as they don't like with a chewy-nylon filling to cling to the threads. On exhaust that nylon will drip out like Syphilis. Not that I know what thats like.

Tominator · 02-09-2007

The ones I'm referring to are made for the aircraft industry and have no plastic/nylon. They are designed to resist heat and vibration.

I may have a pict of them before installation....I'll be back...