SweeTbone

iTrader: (8)

I'm picking up some TSP 5.3L Stage 2.5 Heads, so I'm looking to see what I should do for bolts. I re-used my stockers the first time around. I have them back out now getting ready to pull the heads, but they look a little beat. I'm sure the cosmetic look is not affecting the bolt itself. I do have the bolt that Kooks sent with my headers, but the head is way bigger than 10mm. Probably standard. Should I re-use my stockers, buy new stockers or use the Kooks bolts in the brand new heads? Thanks.

njc.corp

use new stockers if the old ones are run down-

also if u got the kook ones why not use them-save yourself the future expense even though bolts don't cost that much-

1QUIKWS6

iTrader: (61)

If you have everything apart anyway - I personally wouldn't waste my time on ANY bolts.

Go with ARP Head Studs. They aren't that much more $$ and are worth it for reliability and peace of mind (plus you won't have to worry on future head swaps about getting all water out of tapped head bolt holes in block to prevent block breakage).

Just my .02

-Jay-

g-ryde1

iTrader: (3)

+2 on the studs good choice

SweeTbone

iTrader: (8)

Thanks for the tips fellas, but I already have ARP Head Studs. I'm looking for HEADER bolts, not head bolts. Like I said, the stockers could be cleaned up a little, but I was wondering if that would have any adverse effect if they weren't that clean and if I should just get some new ones.

1QUIKWS6

iTrader: (61)

Ah, my bad. In that case, I use Breslin Split Lock header bolts or you could go with Stage8 Locking header bolts. Both styles accomplish the same thing but the Breslin's are easier to use.

-Jay-

tylerdj

iTrader: (31)

I would reuse your stock header bolts. Just clean the threads up some before you reinstall them.

g-ryde1

iTrader: (3)

When i installed my headers (LT) I went ahead and bought the ARP Header studs so much easier to hang the headers and good clean look. def worth the extra money i think.

bsf

iTrader: (7)

I only have experience w/ stock bolts and Stage 8 bolts. I upgraded to Stage 8 bolts basically because they are shinier. Since they are included, though, I did install all the clips and retainers. I bent almost all the retainers to fit snugly. My header bolts will not be backing out of their own volition.

99FormulaM6

iTrader: (21)

what are the length of the bolts?

JPH

iTrader: (2)

arp 12pt. stainless #771-1003 and buy 3 packs of this part #.

lastcall190

iTrader: (36)

+1 for header studs.

ShevrolayZ28

iTrader: (4)

I have the Breslins, $5 per bolt. I only worry that down the road they might be difficult to remove. After being on my garage queen for a year, they did, however, come off easily.

I wouldn't hesitate to use the Stage 8 bolts. They're cheaper and work well.

davered00ss

iTrader: (4)

Use the bolts Kooks sent witht he headers. Stage 8's are great. ARP head studs suck.

NemeSS

iTrader: (127)

stage 8 for ls1, very good product

jimmyducati

iTrader: (3)

just installed my xs headers, went to lowes and got some heat tempered small head allen bolts in the right pitch, the small allen head made the install much easier!

Rob Hood

Stage 8 p/n 8900 for the 25mm length. Just spoke with one of their reps (Glenn, 1-800-843-7836) and he said that was the kit to use on LS-motors.

robertbartsch

Use thread lube since the bolts will go into aluminum.

tylerdj

iTrader: (31)

Why are the header studs so much better? I've never used them before and am curious since a lot of people seem to be recommending them.