question about installing header

[rlmclaughlin]

ok i have a few questions about installing headers. I am about to install my OBX headers this week. just wondering if anyone has any info or a tech write up on installing headers, for things such as torque specs should i use loctite on the bolts and what not

[RedHeartbeat]

Get some WD40 or liquid wrench and spray all the bolts that are going to be removed for a day before you remove the exhaust parts. Before loosening the manifold bolts at the head, give the bolt heads a few good knocks with a hammer and punch to help break the corrosion caused by dissimilar metals in contact with each other. When you put it back together, put high temp anti-seize on all the bolts.

[BSridenguy]

I don't know if the obx's are long tubes or not, but when i did my pacesetters Long tubes on my truck, it helps out alot if you lift the truck in the air a ways, and then slide the headers up from the bottom... Leave the plastic on the headers as to avoid scractches till you get 'em in there Good luck

[rlmclaughlin]

yes they are long tubes. any idea what i should torque the header bolts to

[RedHeartbeat]

Stock torque numbers, its more for the gasket than it is for the header. 22 foot pounds, I believe.

[rlmclaughlin]

ok thanks time to buy a torque wrench and start installing these things. i also need to order my tune to delete the rear o2's

[SoHo48]

you needs a torque wrench!!!! might as well get one now.. imho, tighten the header bolts in a pattern...insides to outsides.. couple of passes. i didnt use a torque wrench, i also used stock aluminum 3 layer gaskets... tightened every 75 miles for 225 miles. no leakers.

[txarkitekt]

Yes--what Red said is very important about prepping the old manifolds for removal. Get some of the PB penetrant and make sure to spray at the base of the nut--don't spray that crap all over the entire nut--or your socket will slip off... And I have never used a torque wrench to tighten header bolts (sorry Greg). I have always done the same as said above--start on the inside and work your way out. I would just snug them up the first time around and then go through with a second pass and tighten them down pretty damn firm. I have also never had any headers leak on me...probably cause I installed them correctly the first time...

[rlmclaughlin]

well i will be taking a go at the header install tomorrow wish me luck

[nonecktribe]

important part is are you wanting to keep the stock parts in premium condition?...if not i suggest cutting the y-pipe so you dont have to drop the cross member...and i used a airhammer to loosen the three bolts on the stock cat connectors....other wise you will be fighting them all day...use pb penetrant...its the best.......good luck