Headers and header bolts and wrenches

[boat737]

As said above, it's a common problem. Don't be afraid to dimple the headers a little bit around the bolt head. You won't affect the performance any, and it will make your life much easier. Put the ball end of a ball peen hammer on the pipe next to the bolt hole, and whack it with another hammer. You only need a couple of mm's of extra space.

Hammer's and car's, just don't seem right. That said, Any idea on what will happen to the ceramic coating? and will that weaken the tube at all? Thanks Bob.

[Bob Cowan]

Hammer's and car's, just don't seem right. That said, Any idea on what will happen to the ceramic coating? and will that weaken the tube at all? Thanks Bob.

You're only dimpling the tube a couple of mm's. Not enough to damage the coating or weaken the metal. I did mine 5-6 years ago without any deleterious effects.

[boat737]

You're only dimpling the tube a couple of mm's. Not enough to damage the coating or weaken the metal. I did mine 5-6 years ago without any deleterious effects.

I'm still a bit shy and hesitant about the dimpling thing. I've never done it before. I sure don't want to ruin a nice set of pipes. But as tight as a few of these holes are, I am guessing that it may be a requirement to do that. Anyone out there have a video of the dimpling process? or pictures at least?

'Nother question, once I get these headers on with the RTV (or if I ever do) how long should the RTV set up and cure before I actually start up the motor? A day? or two?

[Bob Cowan]

'Nother question, once I get these headers on with the RTV (or if I ever do) how long should the RTV set up and cure before I actually start up the motor? A day? or two?

I usually let it sit overnight. I kind of plan the header install early on, so the goo can dry while I'm getting the other stuff done.