Ok so The block that I just got back, is missing about half of its threads in one of the head stud holes. I was told the best way to fix this is either helicoil or timecerts. The problem is, that I was also told the whole block would need to be taken apart to do this. Is this correct or can you do this w/o taking the block apart? Thanks

 

You can do it without taking it apart, it is just a little more risky. Helicoils suck ***, look for a locking insert, like the timesert.

 

can you do a timecert with the block still in the car? and just the head off and tap everything up? Or is this not possible?

 

I've done it many times with the block in the car, just tape off everything on the block so no shavings get in there. Timecerts are great and install easy, i would definitely recommend them over a helicoil. Just make sure you get the right inserts, the kit most people order is for the northstar engine, but those inserts aren't long enough so you need to order the extended inserts with the kit. I have the part numbers, pm me if you need them.

 

I have used the heli-coil before and I was very unimpressed.
Definatley go with the timesert.