Header Gaskets!

[John Johns]

I jusr replaced a leaking gasket after just 4000 miles. The bolts seems to work themselves loose alowing a small leak which burns the gasket enough that it needs replacement.I was using fancy 12 point bolts with locking thingies and retainers. I suspect the torque and vibration causes this. Ideas? Torque specs?

 

[John Johns]

bump

 

[JonB]

OK, Ill bite.......With the lock washer employed, this means the aftermarket bolts were likley not tightened enough initially. If in doubt, RETORQUE after 1000 miles.

Factory spec is 200 Inch-Lbs. But Performance headers take even more. You cannot strip a 7/16th with hand torqued bolt.

Did you ENSURE any / all old gasket material was cleaned/gone?

If you use a 12-pt bolt, you must be using an open-end wrench? .....versus a 7/16 inch box-end wrench/socket that is much easier to tighten. 1 12-pt bolt head cannot take the torque of a 6-pt.

 

[Mike Adams]

What kind of headers did you use? You should just use factory exhaust gaskets with high temp silicone. Mine have never come loose since using factory gaskets. I have all kinds in stock if you can't find any.

 

[John Johns]

Thanks guys. I have Borla headers and did just install a factory high temp silicone gasket. The previous gasket was a gray fiber and very thick.