91 Accord DX Sparkplug tube seal hiccup
 

So I was replacing the sparkplug tube seals beneath the rocker arm assembly on "Lucille" (my name for the 91 Accord DX 5-speed) yesterday. During reassembly, I torqued the 12mm head bolts down just fine. Then I moved to the rear 10mm head bolts. Either my torque wrench is out of calibration or one of the bolts was not able to handle the torque. The 10mm head bolt for number 3 cylinder broke off.

Few questions...Has this happened to any of you before and did you use an extractor/easy-out to remove the remaining broken bolt still in the engine? And did you just go to Lowes or an equivalent to replace with a bolt of equal length and thread size?

Fortunately, this is our third (back-up) vehicle so it is not an emergency to get it done right away. But I would like to do it correctly. Any input or feedback is appreciated.

Thank you in advance!
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1991 Honda Accord DX coupe 5-speed (stock)--- 214K miles


2001 Nissan Pathfinder LE AWD---Loaded ---215K miles


2010 Toyota Prius--- 78K miles

Re: 91 Accord DX Sparkplug tube seal hiccup
 

UPDATE...

So, I picked up a #1 extractor from Menards and was able to remove the remaining portion of the broken bolt from the motor. I ordered 4 new bolts from Honda for the rear portion of the rocker assembly. I reinstalled the rocker arm assembly, torqued all bolts to appropriate specs, and fired up the car.

WOW! What a difference! I had been dealing with acceleration hesitation for some time. I did the EGR intake runner cleaning, replaced plugs, plug wires, upper/lower plug seals, and installed a new valve cover gasket. I cannot believe I drove the car for so long with the, now noticeable, engine hesitation and roughness. It's like a new car again.

Thought I would update as sometimes these threads can be left open ended. Have a great day.