FFR header install recommendations - 427

[Fman]

I am getting ready to install my FFR stainless headers on my Dart 427 w/AFR heads, I have read multiple ways of doing this so I am little confused on what the best method is. FFR sent me Mr Gasket aluminum gaskets with the supplied FFR bolts. I would like to hear how you guys are doing this and have had success with them not backing out or leaking. If posible I would prefer to just use the header bolts FFR gave me seeing as I already have them.

[Vspeeds]

Hey Travis
I used these Nord-Lock washers with ARP bolts. I suppose you could use the supplied kit bolts also. The washers are designed to keep bolted joints secure even when exposed to severe vibration and dynamic loads. They use these in the aerospace and aviation industry and you could buy them on Amazon. I also used the Reflex gaskets. I had zero problems on my setup.
We missed you at Apple Hill today.

[rich grsc]

Here is the best advice I can give you, take your Mr. Gasket package, carefully open it, remove the gaskets, fold them in half, then in quarter. Store them in the round file. Get a tube of copper RTV high temp silicone and use it. You can spend the extra money on the Nord-lock washers if you like, or do what I did and put a small dab of the RTV on the bolt thread. Mine have never loosened, nor have I had an exhaust leak.

[FLPBFoot]

I too have a 427 dart block and used the FFR supplied gasket and bolts. The bolts have a lock tight type substance on the threads and teeth on the underside of the bolt head. I have 2,000+ miles on the car and no issues. Have checked the torque on all the bolts numerous times. None of theM have moved. I think you can use the FFR supplied gasket and bolts.

Steve

[Fman]

Here is the best advice I can give you, take your Mr. Gasket package, carefully open it, remove the gaskets, fold them in half, then in quarter. Store them in the round file. Get a tube of copper RTV high temp silicone and use it. You can spend the extra money on the Nord-lock washers if you like, or do what I did and put a small dab of the RTV on the bolt thread. Mine have never loosened, nor have I had an exhaust leak.

You are running a 1/8" bead around the entire header? Did you use the FFR supplied bolts? What torque specs are you using on the bolts?

[Fman]

I too have a 427 dart block and used the FFR supplied gasket and bolts. The bolts have a lock tight type substance on the threads and teeth on the underside of the bolt head. I have 2,000+ miles on the car and no issues. Have checked the torque on all the bolts numerous times. None of theM have moved. I think you can use the FFR supplied gasket and bolts.

Steve

What did you torque bolts to? I was reading 20 ft/lbs is plenty?

[rich grsc]

Yes a thin bead all the way around, no idea on what the torque is. It's goodntight, I use a 1/4" short handle ratchet. Torque wrenches are for critical parts.

[FLPBFoot]

What did you torque bolts to? I was reading 20 ft/lbs is plenty?

I checked with Blue Print engines and yes I think it was 20. I’m not at home but can check tomorrow as I have it written down. I’ll confirm.

Steve

[Joe Campbell]

Also check fit before dropping the motor in, if you can. Some aftermarket heads have a tiny ledge above or below that might interfere with a good tight fit. Had to grind just a slight camfer at the stop edge of the header flange for them to lie perfectly flat. It was obscured by the valve cover the first time I installed so I didn't catch it.

[FLPBFoot]

What did you torque bolts to? I was reading 20 ft/lbs is plenty?

Sorry for the delay. I checked and Blue Print spec is 25 ft lbs d]for the header bolts.

Steve

[Avalanche325]

Remember for torque specs, to check what the head manufacturer says. Not the Ford specs.

Technically, everything has a torque spec. However, for headers I think you are going to find that getting a torque wrench on all of them is impossible. Snug, but not gorilla tight in aluminum.

I also just use copper RTV. I was skeptical, but it works great.

[Fman]

My engine builder who has been doing this for 25+ years recommended a Felpro 1415 gasket, he said you cant really get a torque wrench on them so tighten all bolts tight but not crazy tight and re-check them after a couple heat cycles. I think I will be going this route....going to keep it simple.

I appreciate all the responses, definitely multiple ways to install headers.