Stud leak

[DP78]

So I noticed the other day on my 383 passenger side exhaust studs are leaking a little when the engine get warm. The ones leaking are in the middle and not sure if its one or two. The leak is not much and it does not leave a puddle or mess any where. Just a small enough leak to notice a trail down the side of the block. I have replacement studs, but not sure if I want to risk taking of the exhaust and breaking studs off. I do not want to get into a head removal process. I also really do not want to run some sort of radiator fix through my fresh record radiator. Just wanted to get some opinions from people on here. What are the long term effects of this and should I fix or just run it? Thanks and look forward to hearing some input.

 

[Photon440]

If it's leaking a little, then it probably won't break off. I'd give it a gentle try.

 

[DP78]

Well I went ahead and pulled off the exhaust. Everything went good and the two studs where the hollow bolts through the exhaust came out with them. The other stud was pulled out using snap on tool A50. Just letting the holes dry up and them I'll clean them out. I have two different types of sealer to use on the threads. Not sure which one is the best, permatex high temp thread sealant or permatex indian head gasket shellac?

 

[super-bee_ski]

Interesting article recently in either Muscle Car Review or Hemming Muscle Machines:

The said a "STUD" does not have the same "Characteristics" as the "Bolt" has.
Also, they said to ensure you have good RTV Sealant there.

Just letting you know.

I hope this helps.

 

[miller]

Not sure which one is the best, permatex high temp thread sealant or permatex indian head gasket shellac?

I've always used Indian Head shellac on those studs. Coat the threads and end of the stud that goes into the head. Key is having a decent fit to begin with.

 

[eric383]

I have always had good luck with Permatex #2
http://www.permatex.com/documents/TDS/automotive/80016.pdf

 

[DP78]

How are you guys tightening these studs and what is their torque spec? I am unable to find out a good spec for them?

 

[Photon440]

How are you guys tightening these studs and what is their torque spec? I am unable to find out a good spec for them?

The studs themselves don't need to be overly tightened; applying the recommended 30 ft/lbs to the nuts will supply the proper stretch to the studs.

 

[Ron Ward]

X2 on the #2 Permatex. That stuff is AWESOME! I also use it on oil drain plugs. It's non-hardening and will remain pliable forever.

Oh... it also doesn't come out of your clothes.... Ask me how I know.

 

[Banzaiii67]

Maybe i didn't put enought Permatex #2 on my threads, but they seeped on my header bolts. I cleaned the threads and used Permatex high temp red and haven't leaked a drop since.