Hey guys my buddy with a ford lightning swears on locking header bolts, so I was wondering are these
"ARP Header Stud Kit, LS1,LS6"
http://www.gvperformance.com/store/i...&productId=132

the same as these
"Stage 8 Locking Header Bolts -LS1" http://www.gvperformance.com/store/i...d&productId=21

or do i get both??

 

no, and you dont need that crap. when i did my headers i used regular bolts and re tightened them after a few hundred miles. when i checked the torque after a thousand miles they were perfect.

 

I've ran both of them and they work.Stage 8's are bolts with a plate over the head and a locking C clip but I took them off and put on the studs. Do you need them no but if you want either will work.People don't need $2000 dollar wheels either but they like them or want them so if you want them go for it.

 

Percy's split lock (formerly Breslin) are THE best locking header bolts. Get the stainless and they won't rust either.

http://www.percyshp.com/splitlock_page.htm

 

^ I have the percy's and they are awaiting to be put on with the new QTP's. I hear they wont move at all after you use the percy's lstage 8 locking bolts.

 

I currently have the Stage 8 locking header bolts, but I never used the locks - I was flat out too lazy to care. I retorqued the bolts a couple times, and they've never come loose since.

When I put my new 1-7/8" headers on, I'll be using ARP studs - it won't be because I have to, but I think they will be much easier to deal with since I tend to do most of the work on my car myself, and the studs will give me a nice place to hang the gaskets while I get everything in place.

 

I wasn't a fan of the stage 8s. its a pain to get the locks installed. I use the arp studs, and as was stated isn't really necessary, but when i went to retighten them after a few hundred miles, they were still as tight as when i put them on, plus its easier to put on the gasket.

 

Stage 8 and 'Split Lock' are two different types of fasteners. I personally don't like Stage 8 fasteners, too much of a PITA. The 'Split Lock' are much more functional and you don't have to mess with those stupid C-clips. Just screw them in as normal and then tighten the lock with an allen wrench, super easy and they work.

 

Same here.

 

Wow thanks for all the replies guys great help as usual here

 

I have the stage 8's and they are rusting.

 

As are mine, but not too bad yet.

 

There are LS1 stainless exhaust manifold stud kits on eBay for a great price. I bought a set and they look good. Can't wait to put them in next weekend.

 

I have had my stage 8 locking header bolts on my car since 8/2006. they are in perfect shape. No rust nothing. My car is not a dd either.

 

This is off topic but those of you that mention having a place to hang gaskets; a piece of sewing thread works great.

Just tie the gasket to the header, start a couple bolts, and cut the thread. Works great!

 

or just put the front and rear bolts in, then slide the gasket in. as long as you use the stock gaskets.

 

...or buy header studs like me

 

i used the Stage 8, for what it is worth i can say , no , my header bolts arnt loosen ing

 

i hear metal gaskets are the best and there is almost never any leaking with them, this true?

 

I don't know about the best, but they sure as hell work. That's why you see many people recommending an running the stock GM gaskets - they are multi-layered steel, and I've never had mine leak when the bolts were tightened properly.