simple header question

**1WickedWS6** · 12-01-2011, 08:31 PM

My kook's headers finally came today and I'll be installing them this weekend. I'm looking for some input as to whether its best to use a set of locking header bolts or to just use some high temp loc-tite on the new bolts.

Thanks!

**Deviant LS1** · 12-04-2011, 04:34 AM

I would reuse the factory bolts. Tighten them all up. After a couple heat cycles go back and check all of them. Should be good from then on out.

**BlackSS1** · 12-04-2011, 04:49 AM

Agreed factory bolts, clean then off good then use anti seize and a dab of mild thread locker

**1WickedWS6** · 12-22-2011, 07:46 PM

Good advice fellas. Thanks. Some of my buddies thought using locking bolts were a better idea but I decided to follow your advice and clean up the stockers. I haven't run the car too much since putting them on..maybe a total of only 2 hours but so far so good. No leaks..knock on wood. Thanks again!

**0rion** · 12-22-2011, 11:15 PM

the problem is the lack of room......I bought stage 8 bolts when I did my headers but quickly discovered that they're just too big a pain in the ass to install. I've also seen people use bolts that came with headers or they ordered and the thread size and pitch would be just a little off. Saw a guy strip one in the head of his GTO one time. Makes the job twice as hard. Either reuse your stockers or go spend a few bucks at the dealership and buy some new ones. Heat cycle them and retighten. Make sure you either reuse your old header gaskets or buy new ones from the dealership...don't use the paper gaskets. Your old ones will be fine to reuse....they're MLS (multi-layer-steel) which are way better than any paper gasket.

**MudStainKILLA** · 12-26-2011, 10:53 PM

agree with above, when i did my BBK i went with new GM bolts and new GM gaskets, had no issues at all with them. Good looks on the kooks man, wish i had had the money for em when i did mine.

**BrntWS6** · 12-30-2011, 12:53 PM

I had an issue with bolt holes full of gunk when I tried to install my headers. Ended up buying a tap and running through each hole.

**1WickedWS6** · 12-30-2011, 02:09 PM

Ya I used the multi layered ones that came with my headers and reused the old bolts and haven't had any trouble yet. The kooks were a more money than what I wanted to spend on headers but I've heard only good things about them and I figured rather than taking a chance on others rusting and having to replace them I would just spend the money now and have them last a long time.