JDM_DAKiD

How many times is ok to torque head bolts?

wunfstgsr

I wouldn't use oem head bolts once there removed, they will stretch. Just replace them or use aftermarket ARP studs.

TomCat39

If this were true like it always is with the cast iron blocks and heads then the FSM would say replace like they do every other bolt that people don't replace (suspension bolts anyone?)

I suspect the it takes a couple times at least to stretch the bolts beyond use depending on which bolt.

The original bolts for the 88-95 non v-tecs were a lesser grade bolt and when the gasket leaks, Honda does have a TSB saying to replace those. So far that's the only ones I've personally seen that Honda says to not reuse.

Check your FSM and see if Honda says to replace the head bolts, if it doesn't you can quite likely use them one more time safely as most people do without issue.

PyroProblem

I've reused set quite a few times but after I'd say the 3rd or 4th time, you can feel the bolts don't have the same stretch to them as they once did. I don't recall the FSM specifying to replace them (they're not torque to yield bolts) but I'd say replace them with studs or new bolts just for peace of mind.

Studs also reduce the risk of thread damage in the block.

TomCat39

That is some quality information there.

I especially appreciate the stud reasoning. Aluminum threads can only take so much.

turbohatch96y7

iTrader: (15)

Heat might play a factor in replacing them. Comparing them to suspension bolts is a bad analogy

TomCat39

Wasn't a direct analogy as much as demonstrating that Honda recommends replacements of all kinds of things, but not head bolts in their factory service manuals.

If anything, it demonstrates they recommend replacing bolts that rarely need replacing (the suspension bolts) so it goes to show they are not concerned with reusing the head bolts which get a lot more torture with heat as you pointed out.

turbohatch96y7

iTrader: (15)

Ahhh got it

whitesihatch

I see where you were going with that one haha. Something so simple as wheel studs see alot of abuse, and should have a drop of oil added everytime they are zipped on.

But honestly Op, like others said spend the 100 bucks on a set of ARP and sleep well at night. Ive seen others say GE studs are better, but i personally have never used them.