Posted by rickyracer (IP: 209.20.173.82) on September 07, 1999 at 14:33:35:
In Reply to: Question posted by Sam Mangano on September 06, 1999 at 20:45:35:
: First of all, thanks for all the advice - it is greatly appreciated. Second, can you guys explain why studs and nuts are better than just bolts? What is the advantage? Just curious...
: :
: : : : All,
: : : : Can anyone give me a source for high quality header gaskets? The cheap ones that came with my headers have since cracked and now leak like crazy (I should have known better). I checked the Summit catalog, but none are listed. Can anyone help?
: : : : Thanks, Sam :)
: : :
: : : Hooker, Hedman and Mr. Gasket all make very good gaskets. Most of the time the problem is the headers themselves, mass produced headers should be checked for warpage, you should have a flat even surface all along the mating surface, if nessecary take them to a machine shop and them LIGHTLY milled for a even fit.
: : : tighten before you start the engine , tighten while running HOT, retighten, after they cool down again, recheck in a week after driving them for a while.
: : : another good trick is to use studs, (grade 8) in place of the bolts ,if possible. Good luck
: : Try JEG'S at 800-345-4545 they should be able to supply You with a copper exhaust gasket,pricry at about $35.00 but it does work,and yes studs are the best way to go but use grade 5 studs and brass nuts,but if You go with just bolts go with grade 5,we're talking heat here not shear!
studs and nuts grip more evenly and less prone to loosening, also can be tighten harder, must use grade 5 or better due to heat. Bolts grip well just not as securely, and they're cheaper, also with bolts you don't have to pull the headers over them when going on/off