I've had my cylinder head off twice this year. Is there a point where I need to look into buying new cyl head bolts?

I wouldn't worry about it. I re-used the bolts on my slant once, and reused the bolts on my old 400 at least 5 times. At least tap the holes to clean up the threads in the block. They are only torqued to what, 65ft-lbs.

On a slant, cylinder head bolts are reusable. When you run in to trouble is on the newer motors (the 3.8 GM comes to mind) which use "torque to yield" head bolts. In those cases the bolts must be replaced whenever the head is removed.

Pretty much reuseable. If you are doing a complete hi-po rebuild then you could splurge for a head stud kit for that extra clamping power...


-D.Idiot


BTW my machinist used to teach the engine rebuild class at the local community college. One of his demonstrations is how much a bolt stretches on torque to yeild applications vs. other installations...

I bought a tap AND die and chased all the bolts and holes. I figured for $15 and an extra hour, I felt better about the head not leaking.

BTW, as far as the torque, my manual sez 65 ft/lbs. but, Doug has 70 on his "torque list".

I set mine at 70 'cause I have .100 shaved.

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"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."