87 Accord 2.0 - Replacing head, Timing belt Kit. Is it necessary to replace the head bolts for a job well done? I don't want to spend the extra money if it is not a needed step. I am also going to drop the pan and clean the oil pick-up (in case the oil deprivation is the reason for the broken cam). Is there anything else I should be considering to make this car reliable?

 

They are only 21+ years old, sure reuse them

 

79 Benz all original, engine never opened, only 30 years young and I don't expect to open it for years to come! What's the problems with 21 yrs? or is it not the years but something else?

 

Head bolts are not suppose to be reused but some will say they have reused theirs without any problems. It is up to you. That fact that they probably have seen a lot of heat cycles makes me lean towards buying new bolts.

 

in theory this is true. it's also more important the higher the cylinder pressure gets. boosted and 11:1 + NA motors create more pressure. the most important thing is having a true surface for the gasket to mate with. the bolts? depends on the app. like the b18c uses a really good factory bolt. for basic rebuilding purposes if the threads look new i would reuse them. if it's grade 8 black oxide or better you're probably fine. some engines like the chevy lsX engines use a torque stretch bolt that can not ever be reused. it all depends on the app and intended use. if i had a stock rebuild, sure. if i had a 14:1 race motor, no. that's what arp head studs are for.

 

Thanks, very helpful. I will look at the bolts and make my decision.

 

Looking at the bolts won't tell you anything. Heat cycling them for 21 years should tell you that once you remove them, you shouldn't reuse them.