in the process of installing a thunderheader on my 98 fxd.running into the problem of not having enough stud exposed to got the exhaust stud bolts all the way onto the studs. i can get them on about a full turn but once i go to tighten them down after installing all of the other bolts i keep stripping the threads out of the nuts that go on the studs. not sure if its difficult due to the fact that the new gaskets have not yet been seated into the pipe yet or should i leave the exhaust studs a little farther out that way i have more meat to work with.my only concern about leaving the exhaust studs a little farther out is that i dont want the threads to strip out of the jugs. any tips or ideas would be greatly appreciated. the exhaust studs and nuts are brand new purchased from my local harley shop

 

Old gskts are not still in the head are they?