Hey fellas, wanted to run something by you guys. I'm doing a head gasket change on my 93 Del Sol, and well.. this thing hasn'tbeen dismantled in any way since 93. The bolts are pretty tight and rusted a bit, I've tried PB and WD-40 with no success. I've had a few suggestions such as using a cheater, but I'm worried about messing up the engine head if I put too much force on something that won't simply move. I've also been told a torch would help, but I've never used one. Bought one from Autozone for 20 bucks, would that work on these bolts or should I try another route?

I would take it to a shop but it's free of coolant and oil currently.

 

A torch might work, but a little $20 parts store torch, you might as well not even waste your time. Go to the hardware store, and buy a MAPP gas torch. They're about $50, and well worth it. There's also a chance that it's become "rust welded", and you'll have to break it and use a reverse drill to get it out. if that doesn't work, then you'll have to drill and re-tap the hole.

If you have to snap the bolt, then **** it, snap the bolt. You should be taking the head to a machine shop to get checked out anyway, since you're doing a head gasket. Just have them remove any snapped studs while they have it.

 

By chance know anyone with an impact wrench?

 

cheater. heat is a bad idea on a head.

 

Best bet is soak with PB Blaster and use a 12 point socket.

 

...A 12 point socket? On a 6 point nut? No, that's a faster way to round it off. 12 point sockets go on 12 point heads, and that's it. Never use a 12 point socket on a 6 point head.

 

If PB blaster doesn't work then try a ATF/Acetone mix. When you use heat you will want to heat the head or nut not the stud. If you're in a rust prone area I would also anti-sieze the nuts upon reinstallation.

 

Go get some parifin wax. Take your torch and heat each stud and nut. Push the wax against the stud for a second, as long as it melts the wax right off. Let it sit, then remove the nut.