Head gasket re torqueing.

[carsy]

Engine has done a few hundrew miles now after re build and i was just wondering if i should re torque the heads. Composite gaskets and studs have been used.

I know the correct answer is to check them but this does involves a bit of work including exhaust manifold removal, so was just wondering if people bother or not. If anyone has re checked them, have they tightened up slightly or were they still ok.

[griffter]

I rechecked mine after 500 miles and they didn't move.

Why do you need to remove the exhaust manifold?

[carsy]

Thanks for that. Re the exhaust manifolds, i`ve only had a quick look but i cant seem to get a socket to fit nicely on the outer studs bar the middle one. The manifolds cause the socket to go on at an angle and it isnt a good fit. i will have a closer look again today.

[spend]

Try simply checking under the rocker covers that all is well, and just spanner check the tricky ones.. as well as the manifolds etc..

[carsy]

Mr. Grifter i stand corrected you are right. You dont have to remove the exhaust manifolds to get to the outer head bolts / studs. I have had a closer look today and yes with a short socket you can get on them all. Thanks for pointing this out, will save me a few hours work.

[griffter]

carsy said:

Mr. Grifter i stand corrected you are right. You dont have to remove the exhaust manifolds to get to the outer head bolts / studs. I have had a closer look today and yes with a short socket you can get on them all. Thanks for pointing this out, will save me a few hours work.

I must admit I can't remember how I did it, but I definitely did it without removing the manifolds. It is worth checking the manifold bolts though. Those did nip up by a about a quarter turn IIRC.