re-torqing stock head bolts - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

wannamk3 · 04-20-2005, 05:26 PM

I found a 89 supra turbo and if it passes smog Friday, I'm going to buy it. So my question is, when/if I have this car, will I be able to re-torque the stock headbolts to 72 lbs? The owner of the car said the previous owner replaced the HG, but he doesn't have the receits to prove it. I read some where you can do it, but it might actually cause a blown HG, rather than prevent one. I have also read that the stock bolts can only be reused once, and if this is the case, the bolts would have already been used by the first owner. Could I take out the stock bolts and install APR bolt's with the so called "replaced" HG? Or should I just go all the way and get a MHG with APR's? What do you guys think?

Tanner

repinS · 04-20-2005, 07:18 PM

I wouldn't re-use head bolts, period.

Although from what I know, you're right on the risks of retorquing.

Removing the head bolts means you'll have to replace the head gasket. I wouldn't trust it to seat properly when the headbolt torque is lessened and reapplied again.

If you go with a metal head gasket, it's imperative that you machine both the block and head surfaces. Those who machine only the head often blow their head gasket shortly after.

Jeeves · 04-21-2005, 02:22 AM

/clap clap clap
Go repinS GO!

wannamk3 · 04-21-2005, 11:27 PM

Could I go a stock HG with APR bolts and still be able to boost high? Or should I go all the way and get the MGH? How much would a MHG job cost if I did the labor myself, compared to the stock HG? Will I need any other parts besides the HG and bolts if I'm doing this for preventative maintaniance? Thanks..

Tanner

ahmedootie · 04-22-2005, 05:45 AM

its not a problem if u use the stock headgasket and arp bolts/studs...but it is imperitive that u get ur head checked...if you wanna go mhg...u have 2 get the block and head done at a machine shop...not to many people can machine things at home... but will u need any other parts? most likely your gonna need some hoses, 6 of my cam cover bolts were stripped so we had to cut them and replace them, and your going to wanna get a new gasket set, including the turbo gasket, etc. etc. The one thing I tell all of my friends who want to mess around with older cars is...NOTHING EVER GOES TO PLAN! thats not to scare u, its just so if something goes wrong, your already expecting it

Jeeves · 04-22-2005, 02:36 PM

Actually, the stock HG is still crap. I ran a new one and pulled it when I pulled my motor last time. It showed definate signs of high boost detonation (at 9psi) and that was after only a few months w/ARP Studs @ 82 ft/lbs.

ARP Hardware and a good headgasket goes a long way however.

albertmdh · 04-22-2005, 04:21 PM

would a MHG job be any cheaper to do before the stocker blew?

ahmedootie · 04-23-2005, 02:42 PM

from wut i understand tha answer is no cus either way u have to get the head and block machined...but if u leave tha head blown from wut i understand the coolant can eat away at tha head...but only if u leave it sitting for a while...

HKS1991 · 04-25-2005, 07:34 AM

I replaced my head gasket less than a 1K miles ago, is there a need for retorqueing? Do to the new gasket seating.

FooSchnickens · 04-25-2005, 12:41 PM

I think he's referring to the problem they had from the factory. So long as you torqued it down to the correct updated numbers, you should be fine.

Jeeves · 04-25-2005, 03:11 PM

Actually, there's lots of reports that it's good to pull the valve covers about 500mi after a HG job and make sure none have lost their torque settings. The idea behind this is that aluminum will adjust, and shift after heat cycling.