header bolt selection? regular or split with locking pin?
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 8,934
Likes: 657
From: Norwalk ohio
2019 Corvette of the Year Winner
St. Jude Donor '15
header bolt selection? regular or split with locking pin?
I have been looking at 12 point header bolts by ARP, nothing special. I have also looked at the bolts made by Breslin that are the split lock type. They have a 12 point head but down the center they have a locking set pin down the middle and the tip of the bolt is split to keep the bolt tight from loosening from heat or vibration or other such issues.
So what is everyones experience with header bolts? I have heard that they loosen up and can be a real problem. So anyone have experiece with this kind of bolt (locking pin type).
Comments??? Experiences?
So what is everyones experience with header bolts? I have heard that they loosen up and can be a real problem. So anyone have experiece with this kind of bolt (locking pin type).
Comments??? Experiences?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,133
Likes: 2
From: Corona CA
I've used the stage8 stuff, those have a keeper to prevent the bolt from backing out...didn't like them, they were a pain and could not be used on all the bolts anyway due to clearance problems.
The split ones look like a decent idea however I would never use them on AL heads. Maybe even on iron they might be an issue..I can just see someone forgetting to back out the lock or the lock gets frozen and one twist of the wrench and bye-bye threads.
I've had several headers and I will admit they can loosen but a good gasket and regular maintenance and I don't have a problem. For what it is worth I went with the 12 point ARP stud setup this last time...don't have the car running yet but they seem like they will be just the ticket..easy to install, easy to tighten, safe for the head and they look good too.
darren
The split ones look like a decent idea however I would never use them on AL heads. Maybe even on iron they might be an issue..I can just see someone forgetting to back out the lock or the lock gets frozen and one twist of the wrench and bye-bye threads.
I've had several headers and I will admit they can loosen but a good gasket and regular maintenance and I don't have a problem. For what it is worth I went with the 12 point ARP stud setup this last time...don't have the car running yet but they seem like they will be just the ticket..easy to install, easy to tighten, safe for the head and they look good too.
darren
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 38,897
Likes: 1,925
From: Washington Michigan
I use the ARP NASCAR pre-drilled 3/8" hex 6-point header bolts (with anti-seize) on project cars with headers, and safety-wire them after two heat cycles; you can't use an open end wrench on a 12-point bolt in tight quarters. 
