Help, Tired of replace header gaskets!

[jef0509]

I have seen the threads in the past so I know many people have problems with header bolts backing out. I have tried to recommendations but I still can't seem to get them to stay on.

I have the BBK shorties. I even tried the locking header bolts, but the ones I got from Jegs miss the exhaust tube and backout anyway (One backed all the way out and is missing). I made sure I had an even 25ft/lb on the bolts. I tried tightening them after a hundred miles (it's a PITA to do it so often). I have been using Mr. Gasket, but I am switching to Fel-pro this time. I have some one inch bolts I am going to use. Any other recommendations? I've swapped these out three times already and I keep getting leaks!

Thanks in advance.

Jeff

BTW its a 91GT with BBK shorties, BBK catted X, and flowmasters

 

[RYC CUKR]

I have used Stage 8 locking header bolts. Never had problem with them backing out. They can be a little tricky to put on but once on they should fix your prob

 

[88gt]

I use a small dab of red high temp silicone on the bolts. Since you're going to be there anyways, might as well give it a shot.


Good Luck...
Jim

 

[maverick0716]

I don't use locking header bolts and I've never had a problem with them backing out. What I did when I installed them was check them often for the first month or so. Yes, they would move a bit, but just keep checking them until they don't move anymore. Usually the people who have problems don't ever check the bolts for tightness until they lose a bolt or have an exhaust leak.

 

[Daggar]

www.stage8.com

 

[legalize420]

i checked mine eveyday for the first week after. get some gloves and get in there and tighten them while still hot. maybe get some lock washers.

 

[shifterpilot5.0]

I used the stock header gaskets from felpro. Never even backed out! Mabe it was luck

 

[stang8urimport]

I've always used Loc-tite. The stock header bolts are installed with loc-tite on them from the factory.... this is the reason the stock header bolts don't back out and leak...(for many many miles... My headers have never been off in 15 years, and 100K+ miles.. and I have 0 leaks) Good luck.

 

[jef0509]

Thanks for the help, I'll try some loctite and keep checking them.

 

[RacEoHolic330]

The main reason for header bolts backing out is because of crappy header flange quality. If the flange has the slightest amount of warpage to it every bolt isn't going to have the same amount of torque and, in turn, they will back out. I had problems with my MAC headers with bolts backing out. I bought a pair of Bassani headers and never had to re-tighten them again after one heat cycle. A good pair of headers will save you many headaches down the road.

 

[Dbeck002]

Do felpro header gaskets have a UP side or DOWN side? Because i installed a set during the build and just making sure they are reversible.

 

[legalize420]

Do felpro header gaskets have a UP side or DOWN side? Because i installed a set during the build and just making sure they are reversible.

not UP and DOWN, it has a HEAD side. i could be wrong but i dont think they are reversible. if they are reversible it would not say head side.

 

[04sleeper]

Try some Felpro 1415's, they have always worked well for me.

 

[WhiteHeat306]

I use ARP header bolts with lock washers on them, along with a little dab of Loctite on each bolt for added insurance. No leaks since then.

 

[Dbeck002]

not UP and DOWN, it has a HEAD side. i could be wrong but i dont think they are reversible. if they are reversible it would not say head side.

Mine did not say Head side or Header side. So i just put them in however. They seem to work.

 

[legalize420]

Mine did not say Head side or Header side. So i just put them in however. They seem to work.

what kind of gasket? if it worked then its all good. im just going by what i saw when i did the gasket swap a few weeks ago. 1415's say head side.