Stuck Headbolt

chentsus1979

Member
Feb 23, 2019
23
0
Kyle, TX
So changing out the head gaskets and now I’m stuck on a Headbolt that I can’t bust loose. I bought a Torch and I’m I’ve been told several different ways to do it.

  1. heat the bolt red hot and hit it then wait till it cools back down.
  2. heat the bolt red hot then wait a minute blast with penetrating oil and repeat several times.
  3. heat the surrounding area but not the bolt and then place ice on bolt then hit and try loosening.
Wanted to get some opinions on the best way to loosen.

Thanks!
 

robertf

Well-known member
Jan 22, 2006
4,781
356
-
I wouldnt use a torch. Aluminum melts about the temp that steel glows red

Maybe weld a nut on top of the bolt. Were you using a 12 point socket when it stripped?
 

robertf

Well-known member
Jan 22, 2006
4,781
356
-
If its stripped an impact will just make it worse

Look at the 5/8 socket and see if there are 6 or 12 points. You need to be using a 6 point socket
 

cositsworthit

New member
Apr 28, 2014
3
0
austin texas
The heads look like heads...just dirty valves thats to be expected on these.

If you are re-using, make sure to take those to a machine shop and have them checked/repaired. I use Precision Engine in NE Austin
 

Tugela

Well-known member
May 21, 2007
4,754
562
Seattle
Definitely take the heads to a machine shop to get the mating faces resurfaced. A valve job is something else to consider. You've put this much time, effort, and money into it so you might as well do it all while you have it apart. Also think about acquiring/borrowing an impact swivel and impact socket to attach to your breaker bar for installing the new head bolts.
 
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chentsus1979

Member
Feb 23, 2019
23
0
Kyle, TX
I loosened all bolts to relieve tension. I tried a lot of different things then i had to hire a welder to come out and weld a nut on top and heat up the bolt. It finaly gave
 

Howski

Well-known member
Oct 19, 2009
1,483
209
Alabama
X2 on getting the heads decked and valve job. May have been my imagination but felt it ran smoother with a bit more umph afterward
 

chentsus1979

Member
Feb 23, 2019
23
0
Kyle, TX
what do you all think on servicing the oil pump gear and gasket along with water pump. No know issue but at 184k miles I’m debating if I should.