hey everyone so I've had that dreaded leaky header problem everyone usually has when install these things.

I'm running Pacesetter Shortys on my 2001 Screw 5.4L

I used the stock gasket that came with them, and I think my exhaust guy re used the old manifold studs and what not.

Anyways a month later, and several tightening's later they are still leaking.

I'm looking for a way better gasket to use this time around and new header bolts.

So far from what I've searched I've found Fel Pro, and SCE Copper gaskets. And Stage 8 locking bolts.

What's the best gasket/bolt combo for these headers?

 

I used the fel pro. Over a month and not a single tick yet. Not saying much only a month but outta the box they looked a hundred times more rugged than the ones that came with my shorties. They looked like the felt your kid makes a thanks giving special pic of in kindergarten with aluminum foil on one side.

I've heard that ppl on here like ford oem ones too. But even re tourqueing my nuts don't turn and have set. I've heard good things about the stage 8. I used the reg zinc treated ones bc I don't like sending such a hard metL into aluminum heads. To me it didn't seem right. I felt like it would somehow screw up my heads. The stockers were in 14 years they didn't leak 14. The manifold rusted away. So for me it was a gasket issue.

 

What model fel pro is it?

 

no idea, i got it at parts store and asked for the one that fit my truck.