Which F***ing header bolts

[scmsltn]

Hey guys,

I cannot get the last bolt on my passenger side header tight enough, the closed end of the wrench will not fit and the open end slides off. I tried grinding down a wrench but took to much off of it and it changed the grip, so it started stripping the bolt. Not really a problem since it is so loose I can take it out with my hand.

Anyway, has anyone had any luck with something else. The ARPs I have ar 3/8 heads. I have seen some header fasteners that use hex keys but I am not sure if they would be able to torque down the bolt enough or if they would stip. Additionally, I know there are locking bolts....but I dont think I would be able to get them tight enough if the heads are 3/8"....so essentially I would be locking them loose.

If you guys have had any luck with anything else, please let me know or post links. I am getting tired of hearing that faint ticking from the exhaust leak....

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[jeff's88silverado]

my headers i got for my 88 had the hex head bolts with them and mine tightened down fine and never had an exhaust leak the 4yrs i ran it with them

 

[///RAGMC]

I used the spectre header bolts from autozone and yes that one on the pass side is a *****. I have also seen spectre has a small wrench for that I dont remember what I used but Ive had mine on going on 4 years with no leaks.

 

[Tempted]

Allen head bolts can be tightened just fine, ever remove your brake calipers? And I actually use the Auto Zone special Mr. Gasket bolts. I keep a few packs laying around. Really cheap and haven't had any failures. They are 3/8, though. I typically use a Snap On deep, thin walled socket and short wobble extension.

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[scmsltn]

Thanks for all of the replies guys. I dont know if I got a one off header production from Hooker to where my primary tube bends different but I have had no luck getting anything on that last bolt.

You guys have given me some good ideas:
1. Hex heads are an option
2. Spectre might sell a thin wrench to use.
3. Stick with my ARP's and get a thin-walled socket.

Any other thoughts, keep em coming!!!

 

[Tempted]

You might try using a 1/4" drive socket. They are smaller at the base and thinner walled. You will probably break it but they are worth about a buck, not something to cry over.

 

[ChrisAU]

Go to Fastenal or some other fastener store and get one socket bolt with the same threads and length. Might run you $2.

 

[low4x4]

arp 12 point header bolts work great

 

[scmsltn]

Cool. I will update this thread when I take care of it

 

[///RAGMC]

http://store.prestoliteperformance.com/mr-gasket/fasteners/hex-socket-header-bolt.html