langzaiguy

*Sigh* I tightened down 9/10 head bolts in the correct sequence with the correct torque. The very last one keeps spinning. I suppose the threads in the block are degraded.

I assume helicoil is the answer? Never used one, but I suppose I'll figure it out. Just drill it out a little larger, slip the new threads in and be on my way?

More importantly, what size kit should I buy? Thanks for any light yall can shed.

iamsuperbleeder

ew...

I'm not sure I'd trust a helicoil for a head bolt

I dunno though, could be just fine... but I dunno...

showland

if you decide to heli coil it, dont do it your self....you need a machine that will drill on the perfect line, a machine that will tap on a perfect line so that the hole once repaired is perfectly straight as it was before. and from now on, use arp head bolts, they are worth it....

Marc

There's also a product called timesert that might work.

showland

timesert is the same idea isnt it?? you still have to drill and tap right?? I think timesert if I remember correct are the way to go though because it is a solid sleeve compared to a spring.

langzaiguy

I looked up timesert but I don't think it's sold near me.

Anyone have experience helicoil'n the block?

What's my other option: rolling it in? Extracting the block?

85excab

i have a helicoil in my head, and the kit came with 5, so there are 4 left.
ive had no issues with it either, it was very easy to do.
it has the tap, 4 inserts and the insert tool.
u just need a 31/64" drill bit.

abecedarian

There really isn't any difficulty in using helicoil. As the bit goes in, the hole itself will right the drill and keep it lined and centered, just drill slow and steady- don't try to ram the bit down the hole. Same with the tap- back it out every little once in a while to keep the threads clean and use some oil on it.
Then after the helicoil is in, as mentioned, replace all the bolts with studs and you won't have to worry about it again.

Unfortunately, the head has to come back off.

foot0069

They are pretty strong but would sure ask a machinist first.
Jim

wyoming9

iTrader: (1)

As long as you do every thing correct you should be good to go.

i hope it is one of the bolts up front then you won`t need to be taking the hood off .

mick cassidy

i would not trust a helicoil to hold torque ive been in a aerospace shop for many years drill and tap to next size up

854x4

One of my headbolts is helicoiled, second to last one on driver side. It was like that when I got it, it seems to hold fine I even have the bolt overtorqued to 75ftlbs and it held fine before I rebuilt the motor.

no_3of4

I had the same issue, the tech book actually recomends putting a helicoil in. Havent had any problems with the head so far, just take your time.