So yesterday, I was replacing my manifold gasket. I began taking off my header on my 88 pickup and realized that a few of the studs were missing. Can I use bolts and torque them to the same spec I would a nut on a stud? If so, what kind of locking method should I use? Are there any header studs that are longer than others? What would you use to clean out the treads in the head? Thank you in advance, -Keegan

 

In general, its 'ok' to do this on steel heads...i wouldnt recommend it on an alloy head. The tensioning force will tear the threads from an alloy head if using a bolt, where as using a stud turns the rotating stress on the internal threads in the head, into a stretching force that is applied to the stud when the nuts r tightened.

Given that theres not a huge amount of torque required for the manifold bolts i think ull be fine. The problem comes with how to secure the bolts. Generally a form of antiseize is used on exhaust bolts. Which rules out using locktite. So ur down to spring washers or those shake free washers (the ones that look like a circ-saw blade)

 

Just get M10x1.25 studs I am sure if you look you can get the length you want .

I just buy them at my Dealer along with the Stainless lock nuts

 

I bought mine from home depot. They are grade 8 and where cheap. Don't use bolts you will mess up the head like I did.