LT1-LT4 Modifications 1993-97 Gen II Small Block V8

Header bolts?

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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 09:02 PM
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Default Header bolts?

does anyone know of a good brand for locking header bolts for an LT1 in a 94 Trans Am..... i cant seem to find a single set.
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 09:19 PM
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Header bolts do not spontaneously loosen. They only loosen when the gasket compresses causing them to lose torque and then they loosen. Point being all you need to do is check them for tightness repeatedly for a week or two, don't bother spending extra money on bolts.

Your search for bolts will go much better if you just look it up as a smallblock chevy ignoring the whole LT1 thing.
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 09:22 PM
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I recommend ARP stainless bolts. 12 point 5/16" head so you can get at them with a smaller wrench..
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 09:25 PM
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I used stage 8 locking header bolts. No clue how they will work because iv yet to have the car started for more then one minute.
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 10:42 PM
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you can go with studs and then put a lock washer and nut on it!! you wont have any problems with it loosening up then..
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 11:01 PM
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well my header bolts seem to keep backing out. dont know why. i have gone through 3 sets of header gaskets because of this.
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 11:05 PM
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Originally Posted by DarkKnightRider
well my header bolts seem to keep backing out. dont know why. i have gone through 3 sets of header gaskets because of this.
then go with the studs lol. you wont have this problem anymore
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 11:32 PM
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i was lookin at the stage 8 locking header bolts. but i guess my real question is would header bolts from a SBC or LS based motor fit on an LT1.
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 11:32 PM
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also if i wanted the studs where could i get em?
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Old Nov 2, 2008 | 11:56 PM
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Curious also as to what size and type studs you other guys are using.
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 12:10 AM
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How often are you checking your header bolts? If you are heat cycling them a couple times, tightening them up, and they are still backing out after a week or two of that maybe your bolts aren't long enough? Is it both sides or just one?
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 12:44 AM
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there are many brands and you could always go to a hardware store or autoparts store and buy some generic studs or something....studs are always nicer to use than bolts are...they dont wiggle out or off, seeing you should have a lockwasher behind the nut..
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 01:30 AM
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im assuming there not long enough. but its super irritating.
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 06:38 AM
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How long are they?
Are you getting them torqued properly?

Any of the following should do you well:

ARP bolts, 3/8˝ dia. bolt, 3/8˝ wrench, 1" length
100-1111 - black oxide, 6 point
100-1211 - black oxide, 12 point
400-1111 - stainless, 6 point
400-1211 - stainless, 12 point

you get them tight enough (20 ft-lbs), they will not come loose.
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 12:21 PM
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as dwayne already said with new gaskets you have to check the bolts everytime you heat cycle the engine. You may be doing this for up to two weeks after installation. 1" long bolts should be more than sufficient.

Matt
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 04:21 PM
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ok. so will header bolts for a gen 1 chevy motor work on a gen 2 lt based motor?
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 04:37 PM
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https://ls1tech.com/forums/sponsor-group-purchases/1007535-p-e-r-c-y-s-s-p-l-i-t-l-o-c-k-h-e-d-e-r-b-o-l-t-s.html

Heres a thread in the sponsor sale section for the Percy's split-lock bolts. I am ordering a set of the stainless ones. I know locking bolts arent totally necessary but I just wan to have the piece of mind knowing they arent going to back out
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 09:33 PM
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Originally Posted by DarkKnightRider
ok. so will header bolts for a gen 1 chevy motor work on a gen 2 lt based motor?
yes, they will
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 11:22 PM
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ok guys thanks for all the help.
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Old Nov 3, 2008 | 11:28 PM
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I have run the ARPs for two years now with out a single issue.
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