Why ARP 400-1209 stainless header bolts?

OEM and cheap bolts:

• Loosen under heat cycles
• Rust and seize
• Strip or snap when removed

ARP Fixes All That:

• Polished stainless steel – corrosion resistant and long-lasting
• 12-point head design – easier access in tight exhaust areas
• Wide flange head – better load distribution across header flange
• Precision threads – accurate torque and secure fit

Translation: install once, stop dealing with leaks forever.

ARP’s premium grade header bolt kit is a wonderful choice to facilitate the installation of your vehicle’s exhaust headers. To care for a reputation for “zero defects”, ensure optimum quality regulate, and produce fasteners of exceptionally top quality,

Vehicle Fitment (Small Block Chevy & GM V8)

The ARP 400-1209 kit is designed for traditional Small Block Chevy and GM V8 engines, including:

Compatible Engines:

• 265, 283, 305, 327, 350, 400 SBC
• Classic GM V8 platforms

Found In:

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

Ideal For:

• Header installs and upgrades
• Restomod builds
• Street/strip and performance applications

Not for LS guys—different bolt pattern, different headaches.

ARP controls all aspects of the manufacturing process, performing all operations in-house where they are able to be closely monitored. ARP takes unusual steps to produce the very finest products of their kind in the marketplace lately.

Key Features

• Material: Polished stainless steel
• Head Style: 12-point with flange
• Finish: Corrosion-resistant polished stainless
• Quantity: Set of 12 bolts
• Application: Exhaust manifold / header mounting

Performance Benefits

• Prevents exhaust leaks under heat cycles
• Maintains consistent clamping force
• Eliminates rust and corrosion issues
• Reduces need for constant re-tightening

No more ticking exhaust leaks making you question your entire build.

Manufactured from ARP’s proprietary steel alloy “Stainless 300” and polished to produce a beautiful finish, these components are tolerant of heat, virtually impervious to rust and corrosion, and they’re rated at 170,000 psi tensile strength, which is substantially stronger than Grade 8 hardware.

Installation Notes

• Use a 12-point socket
• Apply anti-seize (stainless + heat = don’t risk it)
• Torque evenly across all bolts
• Re-check after initial heat cycle

Why ARP 400-1209 stainless header bolts?

Because exhaust hardware:

• Sees extreme heat
• Is notoriously unreliable when cheap
• Is a pain to fix repeatedly

The 3/8″ diameter bolts are a compact 12-point style that are great for tight, hard-to-reach areas, have a 1.000 under head length, and the 12 piece set includes premium-quality washers.

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 1.000 under head length; 12 pieces
Manufactured from polished Stainless 300 steel, a proprietary alloy that may be impervious to rust and corrosion
Heads are compact 12-point style, and premium-quality washers are included

Final Verdict on the ARP 400-1209 stainless header bolts

The ARP 400-1209 Header Bolt Kit is the upgrade that solves one of the most annoying issues in Small Block Chevy ownership.

Simple, clean, and finally reliable.