How to stop header bolts from coming out?

I put a pair of bbk shorty headers on a friends 5.0l to spec torque and within a month they started to back out I retighten them to torque and the samething happen. I then got longer bolts and a manifold gasket and there just starting to come out again after 2 months this time.
Anyone know a solution?-thanks

I've had the same problem too. I just tightened them to the German torque rating, "Goodentight" and they seem to hold decently.

Actually they make locking header bolts. Check out summit, I think I remember seeing them in there before.

#1 Screw torque ratings on header bolts, just crank em down real tight.

#2 Re-do them all every 100 miles for the next month

#3 I don't like em but HiFlow is talking bout Stage 8 Locking header bolts.

The best way i have found is actually grind off part of the flange. Instead of making it one continous piece, cut off in between the bolt holes so there is actually 4 falnges instead of the one. No matter how old or how tight the heat will warp the solid flanged headers. I have done this on every set of headers i have owned and it always works.

The best way i have found is actually grind off part of the flange. Instead of making it one continous piece, cut off in between the bolt holes so there is actually 4 falnges instead of the one. No matter how old or how tight the heat will warp the solid flanged headers. I have done this on every set of headers i have owned and it always works.
I HATE individual flange headers! You think heat will warp a solid flange, try reinstalling individual flange headers that have been used. They will warp as well and then tend not to line up to the bolt holes at all, been there done that! Sucks having to use a long pry par just to get 8 little bolts lined up!

I HATE individual flange headers! You think heat will warp a solid flange, try reinstalling individual flange headers that have been used. They will warp as well and then tend not to line up to the bolt holes at all, been there done that! Sucks having to use a long pry par just to get 8 little bolts lined up!


LoL W3RD!!!! They are a bitch when brand new... ahhhh the good old pry bar technique. So many fine memories..... :grinno:

What about One-Time-Use bolts that stretch when installed? Similar to the ones that come on some stock on factory heads.

What about One-Time-Use bolts that stretch when installed? Similar to the ones that come on some stock on factory heads.
Torque to yeild bolts.

Torque to yeild bolts.

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