dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Not my first set of headers, but I get all paranoid about forgetting something. Install day is a week away, and I want to be sure I've got everything I need.

KOOKS 1 3/4" Coated Headers
OEM Manifold Gaskets
Thermo-Tec Sleeves
KOOKS High-Flow Cats
Anti-seize
PB Blaster

EDIT:
Spark Plugs ✓
Wires ✓
Motor Mounts ✓

Should I worry about replacing bolts/studs with OEM or ARP?

I have tools too. So, I've got that covered.

BudRacing

iTrader: (3)

From what I've read and heard, you should buy a set of bolts. The stockers are prone to snapping... even though they're barely torqued.

I'm considering the ARP header studs, but really don't see anyone preaching about how much better they are so I'm on the fence.

garrettg

iTrader: (1)

Kooks should come with bolts. You will need a saw to cut the stock pipes to make room for the cats. Plug wires also good idea as its easy to break the stock ones. Removing stock wires and plugs most time consuming part IMO.

itsslow98

iTrader: (18)

I used the bolts that came with the kooks, and I had horrible luck with OEm gaskets. I bought Felpro gaskets from autozone and they finally sealed after 3 sets of other gaskets.

Put new plugs in it while your there. And just be easy ont he wires they shouldnt need to be replaced. Hell I had mine on and off abotu 12 times over the 3 years I had it from swapping plugs for spray and never once broke one.

dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Good advice, guys. I've always used OEM gaskets, so I went with it. As far as studs/bolts, I wanted to see how often they snap. Seems like most guys didn't have any issues using the stockers.

Some threads that I found helpful:
http://www.cadillacfaq.com/faq/answe...ers/index.html
https://ls1tech.com/forums/cadillac-...headers-d.html

itsslow98

iTrader: (18)

I had a stock bolt that was snapped off before i even touched it when i did mine. Back passenger and talk about a **** to get out. I wouldnt re use stock bolts Id put the kooks ones in.

GulfM3

iTrader: (14)

I always use anti seize on the stock bolts and oem gaskets. Use a torque wrench, its a bitch to get it on all the bolts, but I think its key in preventing exhaust leaks.

Yes, i know anti seize skews TQ readings.

RADEoN

iTrader: (12)

while the manifolds are off... MOTOR MOUNTS.

dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Definitely thinking about it...
https://ls1tech.com/forums/cadillac-...s-v1-poll.html

Leaning toward the RevShift since there are two options, and they generally make good products.

shadyLS6

i reused the OEM gasket and OEM bolts.

DEF do the mounts while the headers are off. dont make my mistake assuming OEM warrantied replacement would be good for a few years.. the lasted all of 6 months

Who has actually installed the rev shift mounts?. any threads out yet

DrSpeed

iTrader: (4)

Don't forget that you might need a tune to run the new heads, primarily due to the need to shut off the rear O2 sensors.

dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Not replacing heads, just headers. But a tune is definitely on the list. Scheduled for the following day.

lollygagger8

iTrader: (7)

I've never had a prob with OEM gaskets.

Definitely do the MM's while the headers are off. I'm putting the RevTech's in next weekend. They look and feel legit. Plus I feel like the Bimmer guys.....I'm getting rid of the UUC's and going RevShift.

I would get new header bolts also.

heavymetals

iTrader: (3)

If you are going to become a "mod junkie", I would suggest ARP studs and nuts.

You don't want to be screwing and unscrewing bolts into the head.

I have had the headers on and off my car so many freaking times I have lost count.

However, replacing a 12 point ARP nut is not cheap, and they do seem to "rattle" loose.

I am now using some locking nuts.

dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Makes sense. I don't anticipate taking them off ever again. I'm doing headers, intake manifold, and that's it. Saving the $ for a V2, but want to have a little fun while I've got the V1.

SSmokd U

If the kooks didn't come with hardware (which they should) then get new stuff. I too had a stock bolt broken off before we ever touched it. Mine, however, was the rear drivers side. We had to use two nuts on it to back it out.

Oh and maybe this is a given but don't waste time trying to remove the stock cats from the manifolds as they will slide right out together. We were following a write-up I found online that told us to. After fighting a stuck nut forever on the passenger side we figured it was worth a shot. Pissed doesn't even begin to describe how we felt when it all fell right out lol.

dudesweet

iTrader: (3)

Im pretty sure it did come with some hardware. And thanks for sharing the experience. One of the write-ups I read does exactly that...remove the two together, which I have to do anyway.

Just picked up some NGK TR55IX plugs. Pretty sure I'll pick up a new set of OEM wires unless anyone knows of something better...and not super pricey.

DrSpeed

iTrader: (4)

Sorry, meant headERs.

Most headers don't have a 2nd port for the rear O2 sensors. Most tuners running EFI Live or HP Tuners will be able to turn off the rear O2's so you don't get a CEL.

odthetruth

iTrader: (4)

^ This. I'm driving with my CEL on, and my OBDII scanner handy for the last couple weeks. I'm planning on tuning in the next month or two.

OldCobraGuy

iTrader: (2)

We put that exact same set up on my son's V...with the Corsa exhaust. I would have sworn Kooks sends new MLS gaskets with it. They did send bolts, but I believe we were happier with the factory bolts. Either that, or I ran down to the fastener store and bought new flanged bolts. Can't remember...too many sets of headers ago...

By the way, be sure and use anti seize on ALL the bolts. You want to be able to take it back apart some day. I always tighten everything, run the car to temp and retighten hot. Then let it cool and tighten again. Do that a couple of times...then check them again after about 500 miles. I have never, ever had one come loose after using that sequence...and that's with anti seize.