Z31Gold

Hi guys, I am currently finishing up an na2t build on my 1985 300zx. The one thing stopping my progression at the moment is my exhaust manifold studs, manifold to the turbo. The threads on the ones I have are destroyed. I have checked all over the internet and hardware stores, and cannot find anything that will fit and still be resistant to the conditions these will be exposed to. The only place I have found that has them is the dealer, but they want just over $5 per stud.
Has anyone else had this problem and found a place that sells these things for a bit cheaper? My only option seems to be buying bolts that are too long and cutting them short.. The stud size is m10 x 1.5 on one side, and m10 x 1.25 on the other, at about 50mm long.

FlyingT

$5 per stud, how many do you need? Unless you need a few dozen, $5 doesn't seem too bad for a OEM stud.

Z31Gold

I need 4. Hmm, I just couldn't believe that a stud could cost that much, even if it was OEM. What grade is the OEM stud?

zxguy1986

There was a stripped stud bolt on my '86T exhaust manifold and it cost a pile to replace it. Some of those studs are out of reach unless you lift the motor. Sheesh. We had to buy a larger stud aftermarket and tap the holes out.

Hey, if a Nissan dealer selling OEM parts offered you ANYTHING for only $5.00, buy 20 of them and sell your leftovers on Ebay motors. My guess is that the average price for any OEM part from Nissan is $83.27, plus tax and shipping. Nissan thinks that letting all those OEM parts rust or collect dust on shelves in CA is better than keeping old Zs on the road. Mother Nissan has disowned her own kids.

$5.00 is cheap. Offer them $50 for 12.

Z31Gold

Thanks for the replies. I went ahead and bought some studs that are 3mm shorter than stock, and they should work. I am a bit concerned that they are only grade 8. Will a grade 8 withstand the conditions of an exhaust manifold/ turbo?

zxguy1986

Found this on the net - and if it's on the net, it has to be true, right?

"Grade 8 Bolts: Grade 8 bolts are comprised of medium carbon alloy steel. Grade eight bolts have been hardened more than any other bolt grade. This bolt is used in high demand applications such as automotive suspensions. Grade 8 is the highest rating on the bolt-rating chart."

I think they're strong enough. Good job.