4g4dcruisin

Alright, well I'm trying to remove the head from the block so I can replace the head gasket. But unfortunately the support bracket from the IM to the block isn't being very cooperative. The two bolts on the bottom of the IM are stripped, and the bolts at the block aren't at a very accessible place for me to actually get a tool.

Anyone have a good work around or suggestion? I was thinking about removing the entire motor and swapping out for a ZC, but not sure if I want to go through all of the trouble. This block has around 250k miles on it, but this thing doesnt get driven very heavily.

24TEN

iTrader: (2)

If those two bolts are stripped then I don't see what the problem is. Unless you mean the heads of the bolts are rounded, just remove them and don't worry about the other bolts going to the block. Remove the head, then you'll have the room you need to get those remaining bolt(s). When you reinstall the head can leave that bracket off or retap the manifold and get new bolts (or a new manifold if you like).

4g4dcruisin

I meant to say the HEADS of the bolts are all stripped for the bracket against the IM and against the block. i have no way of removing any of the bolts, so the head cannot come off.

THAT'S my issue.

24TEN

iTrader: (2)

Gotcha! Well having said that then, honestly only way I can think of is to man up and remove the ones from the block OR invest in the bolt out set (specific set for rounded heads). If you were closer I'd just let you borrow mine. Maybe you have a friend that has it?

Also, if you are willing and have the means to replace the entire engine why couldn't you get the bolts out of the block? Just curious...

4g4dcruisin

Well removing the entire engine in one piece is a lot easier than getting my hands into that small cramped area for these two bolts. At least with the motor, all of the important bolts and mounts are pretty accessible from the outside.

Also, I'm tempted to just replace the damn engine anyway, since the block has 250k and the engine overheated.

it's a RT-4wd wagon, it isn't even insured at the moment since I have two other cars. So I'm not in a hurry.

24TEN

iTrader: (2)

I take it there's an axle or half/mid shaft blocking the bolts since it's the 4WD setup? Sorry never seen one in person.

4g4dcruisin

Actually, it looks similar to a FWD setup in the front, at least the differences aren't THAT noticeable.

But no, what's blocking the specific area is the firewall and exhaust. It's just in a really tight spot, I'm sure I could get to it if i removed all engine mounts and lowered the motor, which is probably what I'll do now that I think about it.

Then again, I want to just get a new short block, get a gasket kit, timing kit and water pump and just go to work. Since you can't realistically put a B series into this type of wagon, might as well make a good stock D series.

hatchbklvr

get a sawzall n cut the bracket then worry about it later lol n i know its very uncommon but b series swaps have been done in the awd wagons by using the crv awd trannys n a lil modifying my buddy has one and its a wild lil ride all year long even flyimg through the snow lol just remember if there is a will there is a way n good luck to ya

4g4dcruisin

It really isn't as simple as saying a "lil modifying", more like taking the drivetrain from a CRV, which is longer than the civic, then cutting out a portion, welding i back together hoping to mate the two pieces perfectly together so you still have a straight angle.

Can be done, but probably not by a back yard mechanic.

Oh, I can swap in a B if I want, but I also want to keep the 4wd.

julioboostamante

remove the intake manifold from the head and pry it back. then maybe once the head is off you can get to the stripped bolts with some vice grips.

4g4dcruisin

So basically bend the **** out of that stupid bracket until I have clearance to remove the read? Good thought, didn't try that. I already have everything removed from the head so I'll try that tonight. Thanks.