Just ordered the longtube American Racing Headers with cats. for my 2003 5.3L

Should I order some ARP or stage 8 header bolts?

I'm guessing that these come with gaskets, but should I upgrade?

I'm going to get new O2 sensors, do I need any type of extension plugs?

Anything else you can think of?

Thanks

 

Use stock 02 sensors unless there is definite evidence they are malfunctioning.

Re-use the existing stock MLS exhaust manifold gaskets.

No o2 extensions needed.

Replacement header to cylinder head bolts or studs IS recommended.

 

What about spark plug wires or shields? Recommendations?

 

Ive always used MSD wires. They have been great, and no shields are needed.

You can check with ARH but stock wires should work as well.

Outstanding choice on headers by the way. The quality is tremendous. If I ever put another set of headers on my truck it will be ARH

 

Definitely do studs. I used the gaskets they sent and been a couple months with no problems.

 

I put american racing headers on my 04 2500 this spring... They came with new header bolts... The only thing I did was add a stainless steel lock washer and a drop off high temp blue loctite on each bolt... I think the high temp blue is type 246.... I can check if you're interested... Checked torque several times and none have loosened.. Great headers by the way... I noticed a really good improvement.

 

I have installed several sets of ARH and the stock plug wires always fit well without touching.

No extensions are needed or recommended.

New O2's are nice, especially if your stockers are seized in the stock Y. Give the threads a touch of anti-seize.

I prefer the factory style MLS gasket over the supplied composite gaskets, and the factory stock gaskets can usually be reused.

I have used studs, and bolts. I found that using studs usually made the installation & future removal more of a PITA. Particularly with the larger 1 7/8" primaries.

Congrats on your new ARH headers. They are truly the best fitting and performing headers you can buy.

 

If you think the o2s may be seized or can't get them out I urge you to buy a can of KROIL penetration oil. This is hands down the best penetrating oil on the market but isn't sold in stores.

 

Post up how the install goes. I have ARH headers on my 2002 Z/28 and they fit great. I'm thinking about buying a set for my 2003 GMC RCSB.

 

These guys covered it all. I have 2 sets of 1 7/8 on my nbs trucks. Fit and finish is bar none the best