Is it OK to reuse head bolts?

Is it OK to reuse head bolts?

Can I reuse head bolts? A head bolt should not be reused if the threads are galled or badly damaged. Chasing damaged head bolt threads with a die will clean up the threads but also remove material (metal) and undermine the head bolt’s ability to torque down and hold to specs.

Can you reuse Vortec head bolts?

Unfortunately, there is no rule of thumb to use you MUST go by the factory manual to see if the bolts need replacement. If you are using the Vortec heads on an older engine, then there is no problem using the old style bolts and torque specifications. If you are going to use the new bolts, use the new torque specs.

Can head bolts be Retorqued?

After doing some research it seems that the idea of retorquing head bolts originated “back in the day” when composite head gaskets were commonplace. After being torqued down these gaskets would tend to “settle” a bit, which made retorquing them a good idea to prevent seepage and other issues.

When should the cylinder head bolts be replaced?

If the engine has low mileage you can usually reuse the head bolts if they are NOT aluminum. In an engine with over 100,000 on it, the head bolts should always be replaced. If the bolts are aluminum, then again, you always replace them.

Should head bolts be oiled?

As a rule, the threads and underside of the head on most standard automotive head bolts should be lubricated with motor oil before the bolts are installed. The torque values specified by the engine manufacturer are typically based on oiled threads and fasteners – not dry fasteners.

Do I have to replace head bolts when replacing head gasket?

A poorly installed gasket leaks and can damage other engine components. All in all, it’s often best to install new head bolts when you work on your cylinder head or head gasket, unless you can be absolutely sure the age and condition of your current ones. It will save you headaches and cash in the future.

How do I know if my head bolts are torque to yield?

You can identify a torque-to-yield or stretch-style fastener by the narrow shank just below the washer face and before the thread run. A bolt of this design is intended to be installed in the plastic range and cannot be reused after being tightened once.

What is the torque for head bolts?

If an engine produces 1,500 pounds of pressure and the cylinder head has 8 bolts, then each bolt must be tightened to 187 foot-pounds of torque to secure the cylinder head to the block.

How do you know if your head bolts are stretched?

Check the length of your bolts as well—if your bolts have been too stretched, they will have lengthened. They will likely display some visible distortions because of this. You should also always check the length of new bolts, as depending on your engine model, different bolt holes require different length bolts.

Should I use anti seize on head bolts?

There is one time you should always use anti-seize when torquing cylinder head bolts: when it’s a diesel engine. As a rule, you need to chase both the male and female threads and use anti-seize on diesel engines.

Is it OK to reuse cylinder head bolts?

Lubricate the bolts in engine oil as part of the cleaning process. Bolts with any signs of damage, no matter how slight, should never be reused. Not only will the bolts eventually fail, but when they do, there is the potential for them to cause damage to your cylinder head.

When to replace head bolts on a car?

Is it safe to use the same head bolts?

First and foremost, if the quality and condition of your current head bolts are relatively quality and somewhat new, it will be safe to use them again. In other words, if your head bolts look and feel good, you should have no problem re-installing the same ones.

Can a old head bolt cause an engine leak?

If you’re unsure whether or not you have TTY bolts in your engine, check the specifications in your engine manual, which should tell you. An old head bolt that doesn’t allow for proper clamping can lead to leaks in your engine. Coolant will be able to leak through the bolt hole and cause more issues for your engine.

Can You reuse head bolts on an engine?

Tips for Reusing Head Bolts. Reusing head bolts on your engine is not usually recommended by dealerships and car manufacturers. However, when you change your head gasket, or do other mechanical work to the head assembly, you can reuse your head bolts if they are in good condition and you follow a few tips.

Do you have to clean head bolts before reinstallation?

The bolts and bolt holes need to be completely cleaned before reinstallation to ensure proper clamp and torque measurements. Lubricate the bolts in engine oil as part of the cleaning process. Bolts with any signs of damage, no matter how slight, should never be reused.

Can a head bolt be used more than once?

Because of this, many standard head bolts are okay to use more than once, as long as they have not been stretched past their spring back point. Once this occurs, they should no longer be used in the engine, as they won’t clamp properly.

If you’re unsure whether or not you have TTY bolts in your engine, check the specifications in your engine manual, which should tell you. An old head bolt that doesn’t allow for proper clamping can lead to leaks in your engine. Coolant will be able to leak through the bolt hole and cause more issues for your engine.