Engine Maintenance: Three Crucial Guidelines for Using Head Bolts Effectively
The process of installing the cylinder head in the engine will require the replacement of the head bolts. If you are planning on handling this task, you should plan on acquiring quality products from a specialist dealer. Inefficient bolts could lead to premature failure of the connection between the cylinder and the engine block. Moreover, the risk of vehicle malfunction will be higher. In addition to acquiring good head bolts, you must plan for correct installation. Here are simple guidelines to help you achieve the best results.
Inspect the Bolts
You should check on the condition of the head bolts before placement in your engine. This process is of particular importance if you are planning on reusing your old connectors. In general, you must ensure that threads of the component are not distorted. They should also be free of grime and dirt. Remember, if these threads are not in a good state, you will not be able to fasten them adequately. Consequently, the performance of the elements will be compromised. Therefore, check the head bolts and replace ones with damaged threads. Also, utilise a brush when cleaning dirty fasteners.
Use a Lubricant
It is advisable to use some lubricant when installing your head bolts in your vehicle. This practice will ensure that the clamp load during installation is uniform and optimal. Also, the lubricant will minimise the risk of thread galling. You should note that the galling problem can be particularly prominent when using stainless steel bolts. Where possible, you should opt for the lubricant recommended for your chosen head bolts. For instance, there is a torque lube available for use with ARP products. Alternative lubricants may be used, but the performance might not be as great.
Install Washers
Steel bolt heads can be harsh against aluminium engine components. In simple terms, if hard steel is placed directly on an aluminium cylinder, it might cause the deterioration of the softer metal. Galling could lead to accelerated deterioration of the engine and the subsequent need for repairs. Therefore, if you have chosen to use steelhead bolts, you should use washers to minimise the stress on the cylinder head surface. This will prevent surface damage and ensure that the exerted load after tightening the bolts is even due to the distribution effect of the washer.
Finally, you should check the recommended guidelines for installing and tightening your head bolts. The provided sequence by the manufacturer will make the task easier and you will achieve optimal torque values for ideal engine performance. Look in stores near you to find header bolts like ARP header bolts for your project.
Share