Best Exhaust Header Bolts of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Exhaust header bolts are an essential component of any high-performance exhaust system. These bolts are designed to securely fasten the exhaust headers to the engine block, ensuring a tight seal and preventing any leaks or vibrations. Made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or titanium, these bolts are built to withstand extreme temperatures and the constant expansion and contraction of the exhaust system. With a range of sizes and styles available, there is an exhaust header bolt to fit any make or model of vehicle. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, investing in high-quality exhaust header bolts is crucial for achieving optimal performance and longevity from your exhaust system.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits Cover #TOP 1
ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits
ftb score rating icon 9.9
269 Motorsports Stainless Steel LS Header Stud Kit Cover #TOP 2
269 Motorsports Stainless Steel LS Header Stud Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit Cover #TOP 3
ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Exhaust Header Bolts

#TOP 1

ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits

ARP
134-1202
Black
3/8 inch
ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits Cover
ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits, Chevrolet Gen III/LS Series, 3/8˝ wide

The ARP 134-1202 Chromoly Header Bolt Kits for Chevrolet Gen III/LS Series features black oxide finish, steel material, and bolt style. It is designed for exhaust header bolts.

What We Like
Durable chromoly construction
Corrosion-resistant black oxide finish
Easy to install bolt style
#TOP 2

269 Motorsports Stainless Steel LS Header Stud Kit

B-12100
269 Motorsports Stainless Steel LS Header Stud Kit Cover
LS HEADER STUD KIT BOLTS STAINLESS STEEL LSX LS2 LS3 LS6 LS7 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2L

The 269 Motorsports LS Header Kit is designed for Chevy V8 engines, including the popular GEN III and IV LSX series like LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LS7, as well as Vortec truck engines ranging from 4.8 to 6.2 liters. Made from durable 304 stainless steel, the studs resist rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. With 12 polished M8 studs and matching hex locking flange nuts, this kit provides a secure and reliable fit, making installation easier and helping you keep your exhaust headers firmly in place. This kit is a great choice for anyone upgrading or maintaining their LS engine's exhaust system.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel material
Fits multiple LS engine models
Includes polished M8 studs
Comes with locking flange nuts

ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit

ARP
100-1110
3/8 in
ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit Cover
ARP 100-1110 1001110 Header Bolts With Hex Style Heads, Chrome Moly Steel With Black Oxide Finish, Set Of 16

ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit is a premium grade bolt kit designed to help you install exhaust headers effortlessly. With 170,000 PSI strength rating, these bolts are considerably stronger than Grade 8 hardware. Plus, the 3/8” diameter and 1.000 under head length of the bolts make them a perfect fit for exhaust headers. Made from black oxide finished chrome moly steel, the traditional hex style heads of the bolts provide easy maneuverability. The package includes 16 pieces of bolts and premium-quality washers.

What We Like
Premium grade bolt kit
170,000 PSI strength rating is considerably stronger than Grade 8 hardware
3/8” diameter and 1.000 under head length of the bolts make them a perfect fit for exhaust headers
#TOP 4

SBC Stainless Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit

F.S.P
99447820
3/8-16
SBC Stainless Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit Cover
SBC Stainless Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit 1” 3/8-16 Bolts Compatible with Chevrolet V8 Small Blocks 265 283 305 327 350 383 400 Gen I & II 92-97 LT1 LT4 TPI TBI 96-98 Vortec 5.0L 5.7L BOP

The F.S.P Exhaust Header Bolts are designed to fit a wide range of Chevrolet V8 small block engines from 1955 to 1998. They are compatible with exhaust headers that have flanges up to ½” thick, ensuring a secure fit for your performance needs. Additionally, these bolts are suitable for Pontiac, Buick, and Oldsmobile V8 engines as well. Made from high-grade 18-8 stainless steel, they resist rust and corrosion, offering durability that chrome or steel options can't match. You’ll find that these bolts use a standard 5/16” Allen wrench, making installation straightforward and hassle-free.

What We Like
Rust and corrosion resistant
Compatible with multiple engines
Easy installation
Durable stainless steel material
#TOP 5

BBK 1577 Ford 302/351 Exhaust Header Bolt Kit

1577
Black
No Size
BBK 1577 Ford 302/351 Exhaust Header Bolt Kit Cover
BBK 1577 Ford 302/351 Exhaust Header Bolt Kit for Ford - 16 Piece 3/8"

The BBK 1577 Ford 302/351 Exhaust Header Bolt Kit is American-designed and built to fit all 302 and 351 applications. The kit contains 16 pieces of 3/8 X 3/4 bolts that are zinc-coated to prevent rust. This kit is the same one included in all BBK SB Ford Exhaust Header Kits, and it is made in the USA.

What We Like
American designed and built
Zinc-coated to prevent rust
Fits all 302 and 351 applications
#TOP 6

SeaEagles 100-1110 Chrome Moly Header Bolts

1001110
3/8 in
SeaEagles 100-1110 Chrome Moly Header Bolts Cover
SeaEagles Stud Hardware 16Pices 100-1110 1001110 Header Bolts, Chrome Moly Steel, Black Oxide Finish

The SeaEagles Header Bolts provide a strong and reliable fastening option for your automotive or motorcycle projects. Made from chrome moly steel with a black oxide coating, these bolts resist rust and wear, giving you long-lasting durability. Their hex-style heads make installation and removal straightforward, so you won’t need special tools. Designed to fit exactly like original equipment, these bolts ensure a perfect match for your exhaust headers, helping you avoid leaks or misalignment. If you want a dependable set of bolts that combine strength, ease of use, and precise fit, the SeaEagles Header Bolts are a great choice.

What We Like
Durable chrome moly steel
Corrosion-resistant black oxide finish
Easy hex-head design
OEM-spec precise fit
#TOP 7

Z Whip Stainless-Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit

99447822
Z Whip Stainless-Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit Cover
Z Whip SBF BBF Stainless-Steel Exhaust Header Bolt Kit 1” 3/8-16 Bolts and Washers Compatible with Ford Small & Big Block V8 Engines 260 289 302 351W 351C 352 390 428 429 460 FE 5.0L Mustang

The Z Whip Exhaust Bolt Kit is designed for Ford Small and Big Block V8 engines, accommodating headers with flanges up to ½ inch. Made from high-grade 18-8 stainless steel, these bolts and washers resist rust and corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance. You’ll appreciate the convenience of using a standard 5/16-inch Allen wrench or socket for installation. As a product from a manufacturer with aerospace certification, you can trust that the quality meets rigorous industry standards, providing you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is equipped with reliable parts.

What We Like
Rust and corrosion resistant
High-grade stainless steel
Compatible with various Ford engines
Easy installation with standard tools
Manufactured to aerospace standards
#TOP 8

Dewhel LS Engine Starter Bolt Kit

DE-8283
M8 x 1.25
Dewhel LS Engine Starter Bolt Kit Cover
Dewhel LS Engine Starter Bolt Kit Long LSX LS1 for Camaro Corvette 4.8L 5.3L 6.0L 6.2L GM

The Dewhel LS Starter Bolts kit is designed to fit all LS starters with a two-bolt pattern, making it a versatile choice for your GM LS series engine. The bolts are zinc-coated, which helps protect them from rust and corrosion, ensuring a longer lifespan. Made from high-strength Grade 10.9 alloy steel, these bolts offer excellent durability and reliability when securing your starter. The kit includes two long bolts and one short bolt, providing you with everything needed for a proper installation. This set makes replacing or upgrading your starter bolts straightforward and convenient.

What We Like
Fits all two-bolt LS starters
Zinc corrosion resistance coating
High-strength Grade 10.9 steel
Includes two long and one short bolt
#TOP 9

BEONEO Exhaust Manifold Bolts for GM LS & LT Series

MHB---551696---12Bolts
M8x1.25
BEONEO Exhaust Manifold Bolts for GM LS & LT Series Cover
551696 Exhaust Manifold Bolts,Manifold Header Bolts for GM LS1 LS3 LS2 LSX LT Series Engines 12 PCS for GM 12617944 Exhaust Manifold Gasket

The BEONEO GM Exhaust Bolts are designed to fit a wide range of GM LS and LT series engines from 1997 and onward, making them a versatile choice for many Chevrolet models. These bolts are made with high-strength 10.9 grade material, ensuring they can handle the demands of your vehicle’s exhaust system. They also feature a special black coating that helps prevent rust and thread damage, so you won’t have to worry about corrosion or bolts seizing over time. With 12 bolts included in the set, you have everything you need for a reliable exhaust manifold installation or replacement.

What We Like
Wide GM engine compatibility
High-strength 10.9 grade bolts
Corrosion-resistant black coating
Complete 12-piece bolt set
#TOP 10

ARP Header Bolt Kit for Chrysler Hemi 5.7/6.1L

ARP
140-1101
Black
8 mm x 1.25
ARP Header Bolt Kit for Chrysler Hemi 5.7/6.1L Cover
ARP Header Bolt, 8 mm x 1.25 Thread, 1.181 in Long, Hex Head, Washers Included, Chromoly, Black Oxide, compatible with Mopar Gen III Hemi, Set of 16

This header bolt kit is designed for Chrysler Hemi 5.7/6.1L and features 8740 chrome Moly material with black oxide finish, ensuring durability and strength. The kit is made in the USA, and 100% of the fastener manufacturing is in-house at ARP. This product falls under the Exhaust Header Bolts category.

What We Like
Durable and strong
Made in the USA
100% in-house manufacturing
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Exhaust Header Bolts to Meet Your Car's Needs

How to Choose Exhaust Header Bolts

Introduction

Exhaust header bolts are an important component of any exhaust system, as they are responsible for securing the headers to the engine. Choosing the right bolts is crucial for ensuring that your exhaust system functions properly and lasts for a long time. In this article, we will discuss some important factors to consider when selecting exhaust header bolts.

Material

One of the most important things to consider when choosing exhaust header bolts is the material they are made from. The most common materials used for exhaust header bolts are steel and stainless steel. Steel bolts are strong and durable, but they can rust over time, which can cause them to become loose or break. Stainless steel bolts, on the other hand, are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them a better choice for long-term use.

Size

Exhaust header bolts come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to choose the right size for your engine. If the bolts are too small, they may not be able to handle the stress of the exhaust system and could break or come loose. If the bolts are too large, they may not fit properly and could cause leaks or other problems. To ensure that you choose the right size, refer to your engine's specifications or consult a mechanic.

Thread Type

Another important factor to consider when choosing exhaust header bolts is the thread type. The most common thread types for exhaust header bolts are coarse and fine. Coarse threads are stronger and more resistant to stripping, but they are also more difficult to install. Fine threads, on the other hand, are easier to install but may not be as strong. To determine the best thread type for your engine, refer to your engine's specifications or consult a mechanic.

Head Style

Exhaust header bolts are available with a variety of head styles, including hex, flange, and button. The head style you choose will depend on the design of your engine and the type of wrench you have available. Hex head bolts are the most common and are compatible with most wrenches. Flange head bolts have a wider surface area, which can provide better support for the headers. Button head bolts have a low profile, which can be useful in tight spaces.

Brand

When choosing exhaust header bolts, it's important to consider the brand. Not all brands are created equal, and some may offer higher quality bolts than others. Look for brands that have a good reputation and a proven track record of providing durable and reliable bolts. You can also read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality of the bolts from different brands.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right exhaust header bolts is crucial for ensuring that your exhaust system functions properly and lasts for a long time. When selecting exhaust header bolts, consider the material, size, thread type, head style, and brand to find the best option for your engine. By taking the time to research and compare different options, you can find the right exhaust header bolts to keep your engine running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What bolts should I use for exhaust?

For exhaust flanges, the usual options are 3 bolt or 2 bolt types. A recommended choice is an m10 bolt for 2 bolt flanges and an m8 bolt for 3 bolt flanges. It is important to use bolts with a grade of 8.8 tensile or higher to ensure they can be tightened without stretching or breaking.

2. How long should header bolts be?

The length of header bolts depends on the thickness of the flanges. Headers with 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch thick flanges typically use bolts with a 3/4-inch UHL (under head length), while 3/8-inch thick flanges usually require bolts with a 1-inch UHL.

3. What size are the header bolts?

The size of header bolts is 3/8-16 x 1 inch. This set usually comes with 12 bolts.

4. Can I use bolts instead of studs on exhaust manifold?

While it is possible to substitute bolts and nuts for studs and nuts on an exhaust manifold, it may not be recommended. Using studs allows for easier installation by drilling a hole straight through and using a nut and bolt.

5. Do you put Loctite on exhaust bolts?

Yes, you can use Loctite on exhaust bolts. A medium strength thread locking compound, such as the blue 243, is suitable for use on the threads of the bolts. This helps to prevent them from coming loose.

6. What is the maximum span between bolts?

The maximum spacing between bolts depends on the thickness of the parts being connected. For painted members or unpainted members not subject to corrosion, the maximum spacing is typically 24 times the thickness of the thinner part, but not exceeding 12 inches.

7. Is it OK to put anti-seize on exhaust manifold bolts?

If you are reusing exhaust manifold bolts, it is recommended to apply a metal fortified anti-seize to the bolts. However, it is generally recommended to use fresh OEM bolts for the best results when repairing or replacing the exhaust manifold.

Editor's Notes

During our exhaust header bolt research, we found 24 exhaust header bolt products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,399 customer reviews through our big data system to write the exhaust header bolts list. We found that most customers choose exhaust header bolts with an average price of $14.79.

The exhaust header bolts are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of exhaust header bolts, including ARP, 269 Motorsports, F.S.P, BBK Performance, SeaEagles. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.