Why Header Bolts Fail (And Why ARP 100-1201 SBC header bolts don’t)

Stock bolts:

• Loosen from constant heat cycling
• Rust and seize over time
• Strip or snap when you least expect it

ARP Fixes That With:

• Black oxide chromoly steel construction for high heat durability
• 12-point head design for easier access in tight engine bays
• Wide flange head to distribute clamping force evenly
• Superior thread engagement for long-term torque retention

Translation: install once, stop dealing with it forever.

ARP’s premium grade header bolt kit is a superb choice to facilitate the installation of your vehicle’s exhaust headers. To deal with a reputation for “zero defects”, be sure optimum quality keep watch over, and produce fasteners of exceptionally prime quality,

Vehicle Fitment (Small Block Chevy & GM V8)

The ARP 100-1201 kit is designed for traditional Small Block Chevy and GM V8 engines, including:

Chevy / GM:

• Small Block Chevy 265, 283, 305, 327, 350, 400
• Classic GM V8 platforms
• Carbureted and early EFI setups

Found In:

• Camaro, Chevelle, Nova, Impala
• C10 / C20 trucks
• Classic muscle cars and hot rods

Also Ideal For:

• Restomod builds
• Street/strip SBC builds
• Custom hot rods and classic V8 swaps

Not for LS guys—different world, different problems.

ARP controls all aspects of the manufacturing process, performing all operations in-house where they may be able to be closely monitored. ARP takes peculiar steps to produce the very finest products of their kind available on the market as of late.

ARP 100-1201 SBC header bolts – Key Features

• Material: Black oxide chromoly steel
• Head Style: 12-point with flange
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant black oxide
• Quantity: Set of 12 bolts
• Application: Exhaust manifold / header mounting

Manufactured from heat treated 8740 chrome moly steel with a black oxide finish, these bolts are rated at 170,000 psi tensile strength, which is substantially stronger than Grade 8 hardware.

Performance Benefits

• Prevents exhaust leaks under heat cycles
• Maintains consistent clamping force
• Reduces need for constant re-tightening
• Improves reliability on high-performance builds

No more ticking noise that makes you question your entire engine build.

The 3/8″ diameter bolts are a compact 12-point style which might be great for tight, hard-to-reach areas, have a .750 under head length, and the 12 piece set includes premium-quality washers.

Installation Notes

• Use a 12-point socket
• Apply anti-seize (unless you enjoy broken bolts)
• Torque evenly across all ports
• Re-check after initial heat cycle

Why ARP 100-1201 SBC header bolts?

Because ARP hardware:

• Is trusted in racing
• Outperforms OEM in every measurable way
• Saves you from doing the same job twice

Premium grade bolt kit to facilitate installation of exhaust headers
Rated at 170,000 PSI, which is considerably stronger than Grade 8 hardware
Bolts are 3/8″ in diameter and have a .750 under head length; 12 pieces
Manufactured from black oxide finished chrome moly steel
Heads are compact 12-point style, and premium-quality washers are included

Final Verdict

The ARP 100-1201 Header Bolt Kit is a simple upgrade that solves one of the most annoying problems in Small Block Chevy ownership.

Cheap, effective, and long overdue if you haven’t already done it.