torque specs for Kooks LT headers

[mike.nite]

As the title says I'm looking for the correct torque specs to retighten the bolts. (I did use the search function but couldn't find the specs)

I just discovered a small header leak on my Kooks LTs (Driver side). I reused the factory GM gaskets and bolts. Can I just retighten the bolts or do I need to replace the gaskets?

[js19racer]

Put a NEW set of GM gaskets on it. Bolts are fine, Put a little anti-seize on the threads when reinstalling.

[caverman]

Originally Posted by js19racer

Put a NEW set of GM gaskets on it. Bolts are fine, Put a little anti-seize on the threads when reinstalling.

This.....and 18 ft/lbs if you want to retorque. I would just do the old "good-n-tight" method. Sounds like you mostly need a new set of GM gaskets.

[dragon22]

One trick we used years ago with the gaskets that come with the headers...
We used to soak them in water overnight, install them while wet, torque the bolts slightly more than spec and fire up the engine. Afterward you have a gasket that looks like a metal gasket.

But yes, the spec on the bolts is 18 ft/lbs final torque.

The manual says to use thread loc though.

[Slickcas]

Do not use thread loc. Use anti-seize 18ft/lbs drive it a few times and retorque.

[Fast Motorsports]

We always use new GM gaskets when doing header swaps. Also, we replace the stock header bolts with flange headed bolts that are 25mm long. This is done since most stock bolts will bottom out in the head before the flange is actually torqued down and you will get small leaks.

[The Stig]

Originally Posted by caverman

This.....and 18 ft/lbs if you want to retorque. I would just do the old "good-n-tight" method. Sounds like you mostly need a new set of GM gaskets.

my torque wrench doesn't even go down to 18 ft/lbs. I had to put it at 20 ft/lbs

[MarylandSpeed]

Originally Posted by js19racer

Put a NEW set of GM gaskets on it. Bolts are fine, Put a little anti-seize on the threads when reinstalling.

I would never put antiseize on anything going in the heads. The Kooks headers do come with new stainless hardware.

Originally Posted by mike.nite

As the title says I'm looking for the correct torque specs to retighten the bolts. (I did use the search function but couldn't find the specs)

I just discovered a small header leak on my Kooks LTs (Driver side). I reused the factory GM gaskets and bolts. Can I just retighten the bolts or do I need to replace the gaskets?

I always say "hand tight'. The point right before it requires a little muscle.

[mike.nite]

Wow - thanks guys for all the help! This place is just amazing..


Here's what the leak looks like (I have Kooks 1 7/8):






Do you think my gasket is damaged? Do I realy need to replace it? My plan was this:

- Clean everything and retighten the bolts. Then check back after some miles. If everything stays clean I don't need to replace the gasket if there's again a leak I'll order a new one.

[OVRKILL]

^^ new gasket.

[MarylandSpeed]

Where did you get those? It has been a while since I opened a box, but kooks normally are not welded all the way around like that. Do they have a Kooks badge. I could be wrong, just curious.

[mike.nite]

Sorry - those are not mine. But the leaking spot looks allmost the same.

So I definately need a new gasket either way?

[js19racer]

@Marylandspeed, Why not? Steel and aluminum don't mix. They have different expansion rates, so why not use anti-seize to keep it from gulling??

[mike.nite]

So I definately need a new gasket either way? Any chance I can keept the installed gasket?