Best fix on having the exhaust manifold bolts to uppipe from coming loose?

This is the second time the manifold to up pipe bolts and nuts have come loose, this time the factory gasket was split right down the middle, I did do a search and found some info. like using a certain type of copper gasket a sponser on here use to sell and use some type of lock washer. These posts are like from 05, thinking someone by know has come a with a better fix on this common problem. Steer me in the right direction please.

Do you have a flex-joint in your UP? If not, that's likely the issue. Expansion and contraction on solid UPs are problematic.

I think that you are referring to the Grimmspeed "triple thick" gaskets. People swear by them. I've only used OEM gaskets and never had a problem. You should use lock washers. Tighten them to spec.

Use flat washers with lock washers and blue boltlocker.

Yea, I saw those Grimmspeed gaskets on EBAY, say there like 12 times the thickness of the OEM and are 25 and change shipped or best offer. Thought about going that route. Blue bolt locker, will that not make it a real PIA if I need to remove that solid Cobb up pipe?

The max service temp of blue loctite (242) is 300*. So within the first minute of the engine running it is burned and gone. So no, it will not be a PITA to remove. It also won't help your situation. Lock washers should do the trick.

IMO don't use thread locker.

 

Get some 3/8 nut's and bolts from the hardware store with some flat washers and lockers, and a can of anti-seize compound.

 

put a flat washer under the bolt head and against the flange on the nut side, followed by the locker was and nut. Tighten, good'N tight.

 

I do have the Grimspeed gasket at my DP to stock mid-pipe. I got it from Mike at http://www.infamousperformance.net

 

Do not buy these things off ebay. Get it from someone that supports the forum and offers us great help for free.

 

Support those that support the forum.

 

Mike at http://www.AZPinstalls.com is another great person to buy from.

yea, I've never used threadlocker on exhaust bolts. Only anti-seize and it's really not necessary unless you live in a rusty environment.

 

Generally, lock washers should do the trick there.

 

The FSM says 26 ft-lbs for the header to UP bolts, but if you buy new Grade 8 bolts you could go upwards of 40 ft-lbs.

 

Lots of folks say never to use RTV sealant in these areas, but I have good luck with this Copper spray-a-gasket stuff. It helps with rust and with sealing, and lets things come back apart easier (mainly, Subaru manifold gaskets at the head). I've used it on lots of engine and exhaust components over the years, though.

 

If you really keep having issues with the bolts/nuts loosening, you may need a Flex UP or....... there is nothing wrong with safety wire.