Clearance between head and h/exchangers

[hardflex]

I'm speaking here of where the heat exchanger attaches to the head.

how much clearance is there between the bracket on the heat exchanger (the one the attachment studs pass through) and the head? I have a head that has a thread insert there and it protrudes above the original surface of the head. I'm worried when tightening the bracket will bottom on the thread insert before the exhchanger is tight on the copper gasket

I'm guessing it extends 1/16" or so. Given what a PITA the exhaust is, I just don't want to have to do it twice.

Thanks for any help.

[jamcleod]

if my memory serves me, the length of the exhaust stud is ___x52mm. i always look in the stud section (no, not that kind of stud.....) of any hardware store i'm in to see if they carry 52mm length, none do so far. i did get the correct length at a mercedes benz dealer parts counter at only about $1.50 each....

[SGB]

The stud recievers (semi-circlular sleeves welded on each side of the exhaust pipe) are about 1/2 inch down from the mating edge of the head. I would try to test it with a piece of alum foil tape sticking up above the sleeve thing so that if the insert is in the way it will crush the tape when you push the exhaust pipes against the head. Then you can tell when you pull the HE back down it the insert will keep you from sealing.