Best Performance Exhaust Header Bolts of 2026

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

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Performance exhaust header bolts are an essential component for any high-performance vehicle. These bolts are designed to withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures generated by high-performance engines. They are made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or titanium, which provide superior strength and durability. Performance exhaust header bolts are available in a variety of sizes and styles to fit most applications. They are also designed to be easy to install, with a simple bolt-on design that requires no special tools or expertise. If you're looking to upgrade your vehicle's exhaust system, performance exhaust header bolts are a must-have component.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit Cover #TOP 1
ARP 1001110 Header Bolts Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt Cover #TOP 2
Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Stage 8 8911 3/4" Locking Header Bolt Kit Cover #TOP 3
Stage 8 8911 3/4" Locking Header Bolt Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Exhaust Header Bolts

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 2

Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt

SPE-46723
Gold
3/8-16 x 7/8 In.
Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt Cover
Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt

Spectre Performance 46723 7/8" Header Bolt is a set of 12 high quality, grade 5, gold iridite hex head bolts that fit all General Motors, Ford and most Chryslers. These bolts are useful for securely fastening exhaust headers to your vehicle's engine, ensuring that they stay in place while you drive. The gold iridite plating provides an additional layer of protection against corrosion and other forms of wear and tear, increasing the lifespan of the bolts.

What We Like
12 bolts per package
Fits all General Motors, Ford and most Chryslers
Gold iridite plating for added corrosion resistance
#TOP 3

Stage 8 8911 3/4" Locking Header Bolt Kit

8911
3/4 inch
Stage 8 8911 3/4" Locking Header Bolt Kit Cover
Stage 8 8911 3/4" Locking Header Bolt Kit for GM Small Block

The Stage 8 Locking Bolt Kit is a high-quality performance exhaust header bolt kit designed specifically for GM Small Block engines. Made with grade 8 bolts, this kit ensures that the bolts will not stretch when exposed to high temperatures, providing a secure and reliable connection. The duplex nickel finish not only gives the bolts a superior look but also enhances their corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability. The double hex head design includes a 3/16 inches recessed allen head, making installation quick and easy. Additionally, the bolts are removable and reusable, allowing for convenient maintenance. With the Stage 8 Locking Bolt Kit, you can visually inspect the bolts without the need to put a wrench on, saving you time and effort while ensuring the tightness of your exhaust header.

What We Like
Grade 8 bolts
Duplex nickel finish
Double hex head design
#TOP 4

ARP Header Bolt Kit for BBC SS

ARP
400-1112
ARP Header Bolt Kit for BBC SS Cover
ARP 4001112 Hex Header Bolt Kit for BBC SS

This ARP Header Bolt Kit is specifically designed to fit Big Block Chevy vehicles. The package includes hex bolts with part number 4001112 and a weight of 0.75 pounds. The kit is perfect for those looking for reliable and high-quality exhaust header bolts.

What We Like
Designed for Big Block Chevy vehicles
Includes hex bolts with part number 4001112
High-quality and reliable
#TOP 5

Moroso 38710 Header Bolt

38710
3/8-16
Moroso 38710 Header Bolt Cover
Bolts,Header,3/8IN.X 3/4IN.

This is a 3/8" x 3/4" header bolt designed for securing exhaust headers. The package dimension is 7.18" x 5.37" x 1" and the item package weight is 0.55 pounds. It is made in the United States and the model number is 38710.

What We Like
High-quality header bolt
Perfect for securing exhaust headers
Made in the USA
#TOP 6

ARP 641-1000 Black Oxide 5/16-18 12-Point Bolts Set

ARP
641-1000
Black
ARP 641-1000 Black Oxide 5/16-18 12-Point Bolts Set Cover
ARP 641-1000 Black Oxide 5/16-18" RH Thread 1.000" UHL 12-Point Bolt with 3/8" Socket and Washer, (Set of 5)

The ARP 641-1000 Bolts come in a convenient set of five, designed with a 5/16-18 right-hand thread and a 1-inch length, making them ideal for precise fastening needs. Each bolt features a durable black oxide finish, which helps resist corrosion and adds to the longevity of the fasteners. These 12-point bolts provide a secure grip with a 3/8-inch socket size, ensuring easy installation and removal. Proudly made in the USA, you can trust the quality and reliability of these exhaust header bolts for your project or repair work.

What We Like
Durable black oxide finish
12-point bolt design
Made in USA quality
Convenient set of five
Standard 3/8" socket size
#TOP 7

ARP 741-1250 Black Oxide 5/16-24 Fine Thread 1.250" 12-Point Bolt

ARP
741-1250
Black
One Size
ARP 741-1250 Black Oxide 5/16-24 Fine Thread 1.250" 12-Point Bolt Cover
Automotive ARP 741-1250 Black Oxide 5/16-24" Fine RH Thread 1.250" UHL 12-Point Bolt with 3/8" Socket and Washe

The ARP 741-1250 Bolt offers reliable performance with its precise 5/16-24 fine right-hand threading, ensuring a secure fit for your exhaust header. Made in the USA, this bolt guarantees high-quality craftsmanship and durability you can trust. The 12-point design allows for easy tightening with a 3/8" socket, making installation straightforward and convenient. With a length of 1.250 inches, this bolt is designed to fit perfectly in your automotive assembly, giving you confidence in your vehicle’s build and maintenance.

What We Like
Made in USA quality
12-point bolt design
Fine right-hand threading
Compatible with 3/8" socket
1.250" length for fit
#TOP 8

Stage 8 3/8"-16 Header Bolt Kit

8910A
Silver
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Stage 8 3/8"-16 Header Bolt Kit Cover
STAGE 8 8910A Steel, Nickel Plated, 3/8-16 in., 1.000 in. UHL, Pair

The Stage 8 Header Bolt Kit offers high-quality Grade 8 bolts designed to withstand heat without stretching, ensuring reliable performance in your vehicle. Its duplex nickel finish not only enhances appearance but also provides excellent corrosion resistance, making it a durable choice. The double hex head features a convenient 3/16 inch recessed Allen head, allowing for easy installation without hassle. Plus, you can easily check tightness visually, eliminating the need for a wrench. This combination of features makes the kit user-friendly and efficient for any performance exhaust project.

What We Like
Heat-resistant Grade 8 bolts
Corrosion-resistant nickel finish
Easy installation with Allen head
Visual tightness inspection
#TOP 9

Stage 8 8911A Locking Header Bolt Kit

8911A
Small
Stage 8 8911A Locking Header Bolt Kit Cover
Stage 8 8911A 1" Locking Header Bolt Kit for GM Small Block

The Stage 8 8911A Locking Header Bolt Kit includes grade 8 bolts with a duplex nickel finish that won't stretch when hot and provide corrosion resistance. The double hex head features a 3/16 inch recessed allen head for easy installation and is removable and reusable. Additionally, the bolts can be visually inspected without needing to put a wrench on them to check tightness.

What We Like
Durable and corrosion-resistant duplex nickel finish
Removable and reusable
Easy to install with 3/16 inch recessed allen head
#TOP 10

Patriot H7973 3/8-16 x 1 Header Bolt Pack

Patriot
H7973
3/8-16
Patriot H7973 3/8-16 x 1 Header Bolt Pack Cover
Patriot Exhaust (H7973) 3/8-16 x 1 Header Bolt, (Pack of 12)

The Patriot Header Bolt Pack is an excellent choice for anyone building custom headers or working on exhaust systems. These bolts are designed with nonmagnetic stainless steel, giving you strong and reliable hardware ideal for racing or street machines. This means you get durable bolts that won’t rust or weaken easily, ensuring your exhaust stays secure. Whether you’re a professional custom shop or a do-it-yourself enthusiast, these bolts provide the quality and strength needed to complete your project with confidence and long-lasting results.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel
High strength for racing
Ideal for custom builds
Long-lasting construction
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What bolts are best for exhaust?

For exhaust flanges, the common options are 3-bolt or 2-bolt types. The recommended bolt sizes are M10 for 2-bolt and M8 for 3-bolt flanges. It is important to use bolts with a grade of 8.8 tensile strength or higher to ensure they can be tightened without stretching or breaking.

2. What grade are header bolts?

Header bolts are typically made of either black oxide chrome moly or Stainless 300. Both options have a nominal tensile strength of 170,000 psi, which is significantly stronger than Grade 8 hardware.

3. How long should header bolts be?

For headers with 1/4-inch or 5/16-inch thick flanges, bolts with a 3/4-inch UHL (Under Head Length) are typically used. Flanges that are 3/8-inch thick usually require bolts with a 1-inch UHL.

4. Should you put anything on exhaust manifold bolts?

When reusing exhaust manifold bolts, it is recommended to apply a metal fortified anti-seize to prevent seizing. However, it is best to use fresh OEM bolts for optimal results.

5. Is Grade 8 or 10.9 stronger?

Grade 8 bolts are generally considered to be stronger than 10.9 bolts. The strength of a bolt is determined by its material and mechanical properties, rather than just the grade number.

6. Are higher grade bolts stronger?

Yes, higher grade bolts generally have higher tensile strength and are therefore stronger. The common grades for metric bolts are 5.8, 8.8, 10.9, and 12.9, with each grade having a specific bolt strength.

7. What is the maximum span between bolts?

The maximum spacing between bolts for painted or unpainted members that are not prone to corrosion is 24 times the thickness of the thinner part, up to a maximum of 12 inches.

8. Should I use loctite on my exhaust manifold bolts?

Using a medium-strength thread locking compound, such as the blue Loctite 243, is recommended for exhaust manifold bolts. This helps prevent them from loosening over time.

9. Can you over tighten exhaust manifold bolts?

It is important not to over tighten the bolts where the exhaust mounts up to the engine. Over tightening can lead to damage or other issues.

Editor's Notes

During our performance exhaust header bolt research, we found 24 performance exhaust header bolt products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,197 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance exhaust header bolts list. We found that most customers choose performance exhaust header bolts with an average price of $38.42.

The performance exhaust header bolts are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance exhaust header bolts, including ARP, Spectre, Stage 8, Moroso, Patriot. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 184 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.