my engine seems to be running healthy.. but im hearing this constant clacking under the hood, my rockers are properly adjusted so its not that, i checked. on my left header, the port closest to firewall is leaking exhaust due to the impossible fit of a bolt. the headers were old when i got them and i cannot get the bolt in the hole due to the degree of the bend..i've shaved and shortened bolts to fit but no luck. i've been driving the car around, the sound is really annoying. my dad can't hear it but i know for a fact that i can, and its there. so my question is, WHATS AN EXAUST LEAK SOUND LIKE?? also will it dramatically reduce power?
The leak can eventually cause the exhaust valve to burn up on the port that has the leak.I would pull the header...replace the gasket...and install new bolts.Put the PITA bolt in first or put a stud in its place and install geasket/header/nut and lock washer.
i realized that my header gaskets are leaking all over, due to the copper gaskets not being "squished" into place.. and thats because i cannot get any leverage on the bolts, other than quarter turns at a time with an open end wrench in tight spots.. i will have to lift one side at a time off the mounts i suppose..to tighten them up.
Years ago, I cut a box end wrench down, and ground the collar of it down a bit, so it would fit on the bolt against the header. If you loosen all the bolts, you should be able to get the last one in, it's a pain, but it can be done.
