98 Explorer V8 Water pump bolt broke at block

[J.]

While attempting to replace the water pump on my 5.0 L Explorer, on of my bolts sheared off. Unlike some other people that have had this problem addressed here and in other places, mine sheared off flush, or perhaps even a bit of the way into the block. There's nothing for me to grab onto. It's one of the longer bolts that goes through the timing chain cover.. I'm worried that my truck that I so thoroughly enjoy is just about done for all over a broken bolt. Is there any chance the new water pump will not leak if this bolt is ommitted? I can place the bolt back into the hole and fill it with RTV silicone. I won't be able to torque it at all but maybe the other bolts will be sufficient to keep it from leaking? The bolt that is broken is the same one that had trouble in this thread.. http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=209508
Thank you for the help to anyone out there that may have some advice!

 

[corkey]

you could drill a hole down the middle of the bolt and use an easy out tool,

or a left hand twist drill bit that is just a bit smaller then the bolt,

 

[J.]

Hmm, I know that I would have to remove the timing chain cover to do that. I'm just worried that with the limited space, if I wasn't spot on with my drilling, I may just damage the threads in the block and be worse off yet. I suppose I may be running out of options though, and this may be my only workable angle. Thanks Corkey

 

[corkey]

check with some auto shops, may be able to get a good price on a bolt removal, but i would not call it the end of that motor,
it's just a bolt,,

 

[waskly]

these if your careful, steady, using oil etc. i like how these work.

http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_10...Taps+&+Dies&prdNo=12&blockNo=12&blockType=L12

 

[Youn0469]

J.

did you have any luck??

I am having the same issue now with my 97 5.0 V8 EB. I've got two stuck bolts and am SOL right now.

The only saving grace is that I live 6 miles from work so I can bike to work.