Final word on reusing head bolts..?

[CaptainAmerica]

I have a stone stock 283 out of a 64 Chevelle that ran but had low compression on one cyl. I pulled the heads, flipped them over, and filled the chambers with fluid, a few exhaust and all intake valves leaked. So the plan is to lap the valves, put the heads back on with new gaskets, and see what happens. I'd like to reuse the stock head bolts so I spend the least amount possible in case the engine don't work out. So, can I reuse the old bolts or am I begging for failure? I didn't keep them in order if that matters.

Thanks- John

[Softpatch]

reuse...
there not stretch bolt and the torq is Max 85lb
if the bolts have no sign of cracking through the thread portion go for it
Clean thread and run a tap through the thread hole
Check manual for address of sealant in certain bolts

When installing the head gasket
VERY important the sealing surface be clean and dry (Block/Head)
some would wipe down both surfaces with thinner
Run it for a few Heat/Cool cycles (around 500 Miles) revisit torq...Sp
.

[Ozzy2013]

Been done for years and years no problem unless you are running 15 to 1 compression or a turbo with insane boost .

[CaptainAmerica]

Sweet, that's exactly what I was hoping to hear. Thanks guys.

[xaircav]

Make sure to use a tap to clean the head bolt threads in the block to get an accurate torque reading. I've reused the head bolts in my last three SBC builds with no problems.

[yossarian19]

I think I recall my ASE guidebook saying "reusse max of once", proviso being that a lot of newer engines have torque-to-yield fasteners that you can't reuse at all.
On the Chev... go for it. Clean the holes out, clean the bolts, check for damage - but you'll be fine.

[OrrieG]

+ on reuse. I do not recall ever buying new head bolts except for the race engines. If you think the heads have been off and on a lot then you might think about it. Since it looks like you are the first to crack it I would not worry.

[DransportGarage]

Originally Posted by xaircav

Make sure to use a tap to clean the head bolt threads in the block to get an accurate torque reading. I've reused the head bolts in my last three SBC builds with no problems.

Notice that the bolts go directly into the water jacket on the SBC. Be sure to use a dab of gasket sealant (blue goop, black goop, etc.) on the threads.

[OrrieG]

same with water pump bolts....

[Speedbumpauto]

85 pounds is a little steep for a small block. 65 is where they need to be.