swapping header gaskets, any tips

[legalize420]

i am going swap out the copper gaskets that came with the mac headers. i have that ticking noise and im hoping this will solve it. i wanted to ask if anyone knows any good tips to make this go smooth as possible. also, what tools or wrenches does everyone find to work the best. my bolts backed out a little while back and one even fell out. i originally had some buddies of mine do the exhaust and i guess i never made sure to check them after a few heat cycles. i know that when i replaced the one that fell out and when i tighted the loose ones it was a huge PITA with a 7/16 ( i think thats what it was) wrench. any suggestions, thanks.

 

[legalize420]

also what about the bolts with the allen key heads. do you think i can even get a rachet in there?

 

[final5-0]

I'd say to get you some of those locking bolts or at least get some of those thin lock washers or your bolts will keep backing out.

Later
Grady

 

[legalize420]

i decided im going to use the bolts i have and get the lock washers. does anyone know if the copper gaskets will just slide out or do i have to take all the bolts out? also, i wanted to know if the felpro gasket can just slide in? thanks

 

[urban96]

stage 8 locking header bolts from summit

your gonna have to take all the bolts out to swap gaskets, atleast it was that way with the fel-pro ones i have

 

[legalize420]

i have a whole set of bolts that i ordered when i lost the one bolt a few months ago so i wanted to just put them to use. if i get the locking washer will the 3/4 bolt be long enough or will i need the 1 inch?

 

[91LX_5L]

For me the only gaskets what worked are either FORD gaskets (they kick ass, can even re-use them) or a felpro gasket with high temp silicone. My bolts only have ever backed out on the first good run. I got some 12 point is it? bolts, there nice. Got them off ebay for like $12.00 they are 1" long which is a bit longer then usual.

 

[1TRIKGT]

Yea the copper gaskets can slide out, leave the two end bolts loose on each header and take out the rest and you will make the job alote easier. Im pretty sure the felpro gaskets can slide back in but i could be wrong.

 

[mo_dingo]

Are the headers EQ length or unequal.

if unequal, get ready for a royal PITA. If equal, it should be relatively easy.

Either way, the first and last bolts don't need to be removed, just loosened. There are slots in the header gaskets so they will just pull straight up.

IDK what you will need to get in there, but you will need deep sockets 1/4 and 3/8, short sockets 1/4 & 3/8, u-joints for 1/4 and 3/8, both ratchets, possibly a 1/4 and 3/8 breaker bar if it's really tight, and stubby & standard length ratcheting wrenches.

Also, you will need 1, 2, 4 extensions for both 1/4 and 3/8. With the 1,2,4, you can create any length up to 7, and that will be your greatest friend. A lot of times, you can get a socket on it, but the ratchet can't turn with the extensions you have on, and the varying size will allow you get the perfect length.

That should do it. If you cant do it with those, give up and jb weld the headers on; as that will stop the leak.
Scott