Header Torque Specs

I used thesearch feature already, so please no one tell me to use! Anyway, I can't seem to find the torque specs for headers for my 328i. I just ordered headers and they should be here on Friday, and before I install them on Saturday, I want to make sure I have all of the neccesary information. Anyone got them?

Originally Posted by Tater49

I used thesearch feature already, so please no one tell me to use! Anyway, I can't seem to find the torque specs for headers for my 328i. I just ordered headers and they should be here on Friday, and before I install them on Saturday, I want to make sure I have all of the neccesary information. Anyone got them?

If you can fit a torque wrench in there, you deserve a prize. You'll be lucky to fit a wobble drive / flex socket in there...

What I would do, is get all new studs and nuts from your local BMW dealership. It's well worth the cost considering the headaches you'll have with the rusted out original ones.

I think 15 ft-lb to the cylinder head, O2 sensors should be at 37 ft-lb, connecting to the front pipes 22 ft-lb

Originally Posted by LABMW13

I think 15 ft-lb to the cylinder head, O2 sensors should be at 37 ft-lb, connecting to the front pipes 22 ft-lb

Your #s are correct, but I have yet to use them. For example, the socket that properly fits over O2 sensors costs more than what most people spend on a torque wrench. The torque # for the front pipes is usually irrelivant, because the fasteners are usually so rusted out that it takes a fair amount of effort just to turn them.

Speaking of rust, make sure you apply a small amount of anti-sieze on the threads of the o2 sensors when installing them. I've seen a few O2 sensors destroyed trying to remove them because they are rusted in...

Advice from a guy that doesn't know jack!