*Detailed* 3.7 Mustang BBK Shorty Headers Intall Tips & Tricks

Published on September 16, 2021
Duration: 42:36

This guide details the complex installation of BBK shorty headers on a 2011-2017 Ford Mustang 3.7L V6. It highlights the significant challenges, including extremely tight bolts, the necessity of using provided hardware, potential steering shaft interference, and the critical gasket break-in procedure. Proper tool selection, patience, and attention to detail are paramount for a successful installation.

Quick Summary

Installing BBK shorty headers on a Ford Mustang 3.7L V6 is a challenging task requiring specialized tools like extensions, swivel joints, and an extendable ratchet due to extremely tight bolts. Proper gasket break-in is crucial, involving heat cycles and light driving to prevent leaks. Reusing factory studs for downpipe connections is not recommended.

Chapters

  1. 00:27Introduction & Mods
  2. 01:23Common Issues & Reviews
  3. 03:44Preparation & Penetrating Oil
  4. 05:02Heat Shield Removal
  5. 05:33Battery Disconnection
  6. 06:38Manifold Bolt Removal (Driver's Side)
  7. 07:13Manifold Bolt Removal (Passenger Side)
  8. 08:13Downpipe Bolt Removal
  9. 09:15Downpipe Bolt Challenges
  10. 11:46Factory vs. BBK Header Comparison
  11. 12:53Hardware Issues & Studs
  12. 14:27Passenger Side Bolt Access Issues
  13. 16:03Passenger Side Bolt Removal
  14. 17:19Gasket Replacement Decision
  15. 18:23Driver's Side Bracket Removal
  16. 18:36Installing New Gaskets
  17. 20:30Passenger Side Header Installation
  18. 21:03Steering Shaft Interference
  19. 21:30Revisiting Passenger Side Bolts
  20. 22:03Nut Removal Technique
  21. 23:21Steering Shaft Bracket Removal
  22. 24:35Passenger Side Header Installed
  23. 25:21Downpipe Flange Bolt Tightening
  24. 26:24Tool Combination for Tightening
  25. 29:09Torque Spec Discussion
  26. 29:50Tightening Pattern
  27. 30:52Driver's Side Reassembly
  28. 31:31Header Flange Warping Issue
  29. 32:08Final Installation Tips
  30. 32:46Hardware Installation Reminder
  31. 33:02Starting New Hardware
  32. 34:05Hardware Issues & Painful Method
  33. 35:28Downpipe Bolt Torque
  34. 35:59Reconnecting Steering Rod
  35. 36:31Reinstalling Steering Shaft Bracket
  36. 36:41Battery Reconnection & Break-in Prep
  37. 36:52Installation Recap & Pain Level
  38. 37:10Downpipe Flange Bolt Difficulty
  39. 37:34Tool Requirements Summary
  40. 38:09Bolt Removal Challenges
  41. 39:00Gasket Break-in Procedure
  42. 41:07Exhaust Leak Recap
  43. 41:49Double Gasketing Solution
  44. 42:05Downpipe Hardware Necessity

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main challenges when installing BBK shorty headers on a Ford Mustang 3.7L V6?

Key challenges include extremely tight factory exhaust manifold bolts requiring significant force and specialized tools, potential interference from the steering shaft bracket, and the need for a specific gasket break-in procedure to prevent leaks. Reusing factory studs for downpipe connections is also problematic.

What tools are essential for installing BBK shorty headers on a Mustang 3.7L V6?

Essential tools include a comprehensive set of sockets (6-point preferred), various extensions, swivel joints, an extendable ratchet, a breaker bar, penetrating oil, and potentially a line wrench or vice grips for stubborn bolts. Access to the lower bolts often requires a lifted vehicle.

How should the gaskets be broken in after installing BBK shorty headers?

After installation, start the engine and let it reach operating temperature, expecting smoke as the gaskets seat. Idle for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. Repeat this cycle, followed by a light drive (under 10% throttle) for 10-15 minutes, then cool down again.

Can I reuse the factory studs when connecting the BBK downpipes to the headers?

No, it is strongly recommended not to reuse factory studs for the downpipe-to-header connection. BBK provides specific hardware designed to ensure a proper seal, and reusing old studs can lead to exhaust leaks.

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Buckeye Ballistics

View all →