Head Gasket Question

[LukeDog3D]

Here's my situation:

I just bought and installed a new head gasket and head bolt set...and I may have to take the heads off again. Can I re-use these basically brand new gaskets and bolts?

I was thinking I could re-use the gaskets, but I would need to get new head bolts.

All opinions are appreciated

 

[SteveVB]

I personally wouldnt reuse the bolts or gaskets. The gasket may be OK but after you get it all together and find out you should have used the new gasket ... now tear it all apart again- cheaper to replace it now.

I cant find the info now, butI think I have the cut relationships for the head and intake someplace, I can look later this afternoon. If you just cleaned up the head it should be OK, If they had to take a good cut then you may need to make a matching cut to get the intake to seal.

 

[Maniak]

I don't think you can use the gasket since it is a crush type (it sqwishes (sp?) when you tighten the heads)..

As for the bolts.. No you cannot re-use them.. they are stretch bolts.. remember how you tightened them.. torque to x then rotate 90 degrees (don't remember teh amount).. Stretch style bolts cannot be re-used.. (bad idea)...

~Mark

 

[LukeDog3D]

Thanks for the info guys. I'll bite the bullet and buy the bolts and the gaskets again.