I've had my cylinder head torqued down to spec. with the head gasket underneath it for about 1-2 weeks. I have to go in and replace a valve.

Can I re-use the head gasket or head bolts after I remove the head and replace the valve? I'm thinking it's definitely a good idea to replace them both, but does anyone have any experience after having them both torqued for a short period of time??

 

The head gasket, no. Once it's been torqued down and the vehicle has been operated it's no longer re useable. The head bolts. That's always a fight around here. I re use head bolts (never had a problem) unless they are torque-to-yield.


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Technically if the head bolts haven't stretched beyond spec they are reusable. Typically they don't stretch beyond spec but they do weaken and so it's a roll of the dice whether or not they'll hold again.

 

I haven't had it in the car, it's on a engine stand.

 

That's still kinda touchy. It's been torqued but not ran. You MIGHT be ok to re use it. (not responsible for failure) i personally would not re use it. But maybe a few others on here have done what your asking and had luck.


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Thanks a lot boys. Im gonna have to stay on the safe side and replace both!

 

It's a little costly but a smart move.


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