Any tips on engine install with Ebay headers?

[bwh13]

Getting ready to put the engine in and wondered if there are any tricks needed to put on the Ebay headers. I removed the studs already and have bolts ready to attach the headers. Also, can the headers be removed once the engine is in there? I'd like to have some header flanges welded onto the collectors, but can't do that until I see where they need to be cut so the converter is in position.

I did need to remove the heat shield on the passenger side engine arm to clear the lowest tube...

[MR 325]

I installed my headers AFTER the engine was in.

[smonkbmw]

With what motor mounts?CAB's? We did e30groupies s50 with the headers ON and had no issues at all.and that was a 88 2dr.

[Van Westervelt]

Installed my s50 with tranny and headers with stock style cab brackets. No issues. No spacers.

[LINUS]

I installed my headers AFTER the engine was in.

+1

To the OP -

Is there a reason you pulled the studs & went bolt? I like the idea of a nut coming off & my header staying (rattling) in place vs. bolt out = header flopping in bay. Plus, install is easier & no chance of cross-threading in-head.

I've had a few cars with headers, and they all came as stud & nut, and I've never installed anything but stud & nut.

I really like the fact you can pull all the studs, clean & re-Loctite, re-install to proper torque & know it's a done deal. If done once, you never need to again. You really don't even need to do it at all if your motor is still pretty factory tight in general.

I think bolts would be a downgrade.

Am I missing something?

[bwh13]

I thought I saw somewhere that these headers were a PITA with the studs so I just bought some bolts. I also bought new studs and nuts so if they work I'll use them instead.

[e30_kid89]

Biggest tip: If you don't have a lift and are able to, Install them BEFORE you drop in the motor. You still will be able to drop in the motor with them on. Just make sure you have floor clearance while you're dropping the motor in since they're long. I haven't done them on the ground with the motor in the car but guys who have all say it was a bitch X1000.

[zav3n]

install them AFTER!!!!!! me and MR 325 found this out the hard way...

[Van Westervelt]

install them AFTER!!!!!! me and MR 325 found this out the hard way...

How and why? Myself and three others locally have all done it both ways and putting them on outside the car proved to be much easier. (have done it both ways) Mine went in without any problems, motor, tranny, headers, and stock CA brackets. Even with a broken load levelor. :p