While torqueing bolts on 01 4.0, during the final 90 degree torque bolt #3 made a snapping sound right at the 90* mark...my first thought was that the bolt had failed...but turning it counterclockwise there was slight resistance and then it screwed out. Once out I found about a thread and half of the internal thread from the block. Wondered if this has been a problem with anyone here...and is there a recommended repair...helicoil or other.

I used the torque values 20nm - 35nm - 90* - 90*

Thanks

 

Please don't use helicoil inserts they will fail in this application. I would use time serts

www.timesert.com they are quite a bit more expensive but much more reliable. GM specifies them for repairs of pulled threads on Cadillac northstar blocks.

 

++ TIME-SERT Official Threaded inserts for stripped threads, blown out sparkplugs,

 

I had to use a TIMESERT (listed for the BMW block) on a customer Jaguar 4.0 V8. Another shop called and said the bolt hole was stripped (they did NOT want to mess with it). I ordered a kit and installed the insert. It was 'pricey' but cheaper than a block or 'strip and send' to a machine shop.

I installed the TIMESERT and installed the head. ALL was good.

It is a special kit that installs the insert DEEP in the block.

bob

 

Thanks for the response...did you install the TIMESERT's in all the block for head bolts or just the bad one? What would you think about using the headgasket that is on the head i'm having trouble with?

Thanks

 

I only installed the thread insert in the failed hole. All the others were OK so I just reinstalled the head.

Be aware that the kit is over $400.00 US. The customer wanted the kit and remaining inserts to try to sell and get most of the money back. This was a cheaper alternative than a replacement engine.

If the gasket is NEW and you just put the head on and pulled it back off, I would use it. If you started the engine and ran it through a heat cycle then I would likely discard it.

bob

bob

 

I just had the exact same thing happen to me this weekend except it was the number one bold that pulled out on the final 90 turn. Did you have any luck repairing this? Did you use the Time Sert kit others were talking about? Also, did you reuse the head bolts the second time around? I bought all new bolts for mine and got them all the the first 90 degree turn. I hope all turned out well for you!