Accessing header bolts...
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TECH Enthusiast
Joined: Dec 2003
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Accessing header bolts... I'm trying to removed my LT headers from my 01 SS, but I'm having a little difficulty accessing some of the bolts. Anybodies who done headers, whats a good way to access the rearmost passenger bolt. That thing is being a royal PITA. I can barely get to it on top with a #10 wrench, and if I try to go underneath there is not enough room for the tool and my hand at the same time.
I know you guys have some tips for getting to it. On impulse, I bought a 3/8's air ratchet but I don't think it will work because it's pretty big and can only access a few of the header bolts.
What can I do about this?
I know you guys have some tips for getting to it. On impulse, I bought a 3/8's air ratchet but I don't think it will work because it's pretty big and can only access a few of the header bolts.
What can I do about this?
No way an air ratchet will get in there. I did all the bolts from uptop except the one you have a hard time with. Lay on the ground, or under a lift, and try your hardest. I put on my longtubes, and just took them off. did it both times no problem.
Ps. Ratchiting wrench is definatly the way to go.
Good luck, Chris
Ps. Ratchiting wrench is definatly the way to go.
Good luck, Chris
i found the easiest way to get to the back bolt is from the ground you just gotta work blind or you can take the coil paks off and get to it from the top. the back bolt can be gotten though ive got big *** arms and hands so it can be done. the easiest tool is either a 10mm gear wrench or a 1/4 in rachet and a 10 mm socket. hope this helps
THose things looked like a bitch so I installed my mid length headers while the engine was out. This winter I'm changing the clutch, adding ported heads, and changing to LTs. I'm pulling the engine AGAIN. I figure the time it takes to pull it will be more than made up for by not having to fight EVERYTHING as it comes apart. It's SO much easier to work on out of the car.
Sorry, kinda off topic.
Re'
Sorry, kinda off topic.
Re'
ive put headers on and off 3 times, its tight but can be done from either the top or bottom. You wont be able to see what youre doing either way so just put a gear wrench over the bolt and go at it
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Try putting a knee or two on the battery, with your right hand leaning on the intake. I used a combo wrench with a ratcheting, pivoting box end (don't know the technical term for it). Got it at Autozone, and it ended up helping a lot.
It's one of those slow and steady things. Oh, and it'd probably be easier to go by feel. More comfortable too. I had to take a break or two while working on it.
You probably have already, but make sure take off the "air" stuff and move the tubes out of the way.
It's one of those slow and steady things. Oh, and it'd probably be easier to go by feel. More comfortable too. I had to take a break or two while working on it.
You probably have already, but make sure take off the "air" stuff and move the tubes out of the way.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Dec 2003
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Thanks guys, looks like I'll be returning the air ratchet and getting a gear wrench. Texas 02Z28, I hear ya on that advice.Thats exactly the position I found myself in, knee on battery and hand on lid.
I already moved the Cruise control cables out of the way, as well as the EGR tube and all that other good stuff. I also disconnected the coils and got them off of the heads also.
I already moved the Cruise control cables out of the way, as well as the EGR tube and all that other good stuff. I also disconnected the coils and got them off of the heads also.
Stubby gearwrenches and stubby ratchet wrenches are your best tools for getting at header bolts and plugs on the passenger side.
I did my first plug change with stubby tools and it only took me an hour. And that's with taking time to remove the last bolt on the coil pack frame on the passenger side. I bet the next time I do plugs, it'll only take a half an hour to 45 mins.
Having the right tools makes all the difference in the world.
