replacing lost exhaust head nuts

If you lose one of these cap nuts that hold on the exhaust header, you'll have trouble finding one locally. Online they can be very expensive.....as much as $12 ea.

Here's a cheap replacement.....they're called "extenders", available in various thread sizes at Ace Hardware $1.69ea. This one happens to be 8mm. The reason a long nut is better than a normal nut....easier to install in an awkward area. The OEM cap nut is on the left....



I never have liked cap nuts in any application. They look neat and hide the threads of the stud/bolt, but they trap moisture and can rust solid. And since the end is closed, you can't spray any rust-buster on the threads.

So I switched over to a set of these extenders. And I drilled a set of holes near one end.....



The holes.....used for a safety-wire. When wired together after the installation, they won't fall off. Pretty neat. I coat the threads with adhesive silicone to prevent loosening, and spray some lube into the openings from time to time.....works well.