Exhaust manifold - replacement bolts or studs

[neilc88]

Hi guys, After the X got loud recently, I found I have 4 broken exhaust manifold studs. My Excursion is parked outside year around, and we have had record rain here this year. Is is always damp outside. I want to go with stainless steel replacements. Now the question, bolts or studs?? Does one have an advantage over the other? Which would be easier for reinstallation? Whoops on the "bolts" in the poll. I ment to say, "like they did them back in the day."

[ggazz50]

Mine just started leaking and has two nuts missing on each side (pass/drivers). I’m having the same dilemma, SS studs or SS bolts? I’m watching this poll closely!

[Ricohman]

I replaced the broken bolts with Ford studs. No problems and many miles since.

[RWG78]

I used the bolts from a GM 6.0 V8 (I work for GM and drive Fords, go figure). I used the ebay headers and three years later, no problems.

[57meteor]

studs are used in aluminum because of the softer threads.once the studs are in,you use the nut to remove the part.so you will not work/damage the aluminum threads

[ggazz50]

Originally Posted by 57meteor

studs are used in aluminum because of the softer threads.once the studs are in,you use the nut to remove the part.so you will not work/damage the aluminum threads

I'm going with the stainless studs and thinking of using anti-seize on them. Should It be used on the end that goes into the head or just on the threads that hold the nuts?

[57meteor]

put anti seize on both ends,especially on stainless