Reply to "Exhaust Manifold tips?"

Kermit,

Its easiest to work on the headers from the wheel well, so remove the rear tire.

If you're going to apply anti-seize compound on the threads, be aware there is a specific high temp anti-seize that uses moly, its a dark gray color, whereas other anti-seize compounds are silver or copper colored.

If you have problems with the header bolts getting loose, I'll share my fix. First, acquire the best gaskets you can find, studs to replace the header bolts and all metal lock nuts known as flex-top lock nuts. Second remove all the header bolts, clean/chase the threads of the header bolt bosses with the proper SAE type tap, then clean the bosses with something like brake parts or electric parts cleaner in an aerosol can (dries leaving no residue). Wear a face shield when doing this, because when you spray that aerosol propelled cleaner into that hole, it WILL splash righ back in your face.

Screw in the studs with a dab of high temp thread locking compound applied to the threads. I buy the stuff from McMaster Carr, part number 7604A56. Give this stuff at least 24 hours to set up. Finally install the gaskets, headers & cinch down the lock nuts. This assembly will not loosen.

cowboy from hell