Header hardware prep

On the tightening of the bolts, the center ports are the ones that cause the most grief because over tightening can cause the flange to warp and how outwards which will allow leaks and sometimes really bad ones.

Just tighten them up lightly and carefully. They only needs a few inch pounds. Just enough to stop the leaks.

IMO, use an upgraded exhaust gasket. I have excellent luck with Mr. Gasket Ultra Seals but ANY gasket used should be tightened easy and evenly. The end bolt holes are set and I normally reinstall studs to “hang” the header and gasket for installation.

I use a shortened open end wrench to get some of the tighter bolts. On the drivers side, cylinders 1 & 7 tend to have tight bends on the inside bolts. Start those first. Then do the others.