EnvyAce

Hey guys,

So I recently adjusted my valves but overtorqued the 2 of the valve cover bolts when putting everything back together. What would be the best way to remove the broken bolts? I know there's some drilling procedures to remove it but I dont know if thats the best approach as ill be drilling into the engine,

Jus wanted to add that the car is leakin oil from the bolt holes... so needa fix this asap.


Thanks,
Ace

EnvyAce

Also forgot to add that the bolt is deep in the hole, like the bolts broke in half... not just the head.

01tl4tl

Duuuuude- how tight did you think it was supposed to go??

To repair: get a screw extractor kit or bolt extractor kit at hardware store, sears, parts store etc. carry them from 5-25 dollars

You drill into the broken part with a special bit, then tap the extractor into the new hole with a hammer
Most use a `tap and die` type tool to remove the bolt then- the extractor tightens itself into the special drilled hole as you turn it left to remove
Good luck!

fsttyms1

that is the best way.

NSXNEXT

iTrader: (2)

I would be incredibly careful not to let any metal from the drilled out bolt from getting down into the valves. Have someone hold a shop vac over the hole while you drill.

totaledTL

Use a sharp center punch to make a dent in the center of the broken bolt. Then start with a sharp drill bit smaller than you need to insert the extractor into. It's easier to get a pilot hole started in the center by using the small bit. Then switch to the correct drill bit for the extractor you use. If you don't get it centered you risk damaging the threads in the hole & will then have to repair them with an insert or oversize bolt.

phee

iTrader: (5)

drive it to a mechanic and have them remove it.

i just dont trust myself enough to do shit like this

01tl4tl

very good points total- thanks

the extractor kit I have contains special drill bits for its use only

EnvyAce

ok guys thanks for the replies.

I opened it up 2day and got the broken bolts out. I didnt even have to use the extractor kit. Since the broken bolt's surface was uneven, I was able to use a flathead screwdriver to get it out just like a screw.

The replacement bolts are $10 a piece from the dealer!!! o well, still saved a bunch from doing the valve adjustment myself...

I dont know how they broke so easily though, I was following the manual and was tightening the valve cover bolts in star pattern trying to torque them to 8.7 Lb-ft. My torque wrench only starts at 10 so I turned it below that slightly.... turned out to be too i guess. Do i need to recalibrate my torque wrench or sumthin?


Thanks,
Ace

totaledTL

You got lucky-

Just need to get a torque wrench with specs within the range you need. Probl. can't guess this one since they apparently break easily.

scottn3

Warning: these bolts break very easily.

I also broke one of these bolts and over stretched a few others when putting my valve covers back on. I WAS using a torque wrench set to the recommended 8.7 ft-lbs and it was way too tight for these small bolts.

I would recommend anyone working with these to just use a 1/4" ratchet and just tighten to snug like any other bolt.

When using a torque wrench, you cannot get the correct feel and will overtighten and break easily.

fsttyms1

The whole point of a torque wrench is so that you dont have to get the feel. It should tell you when you are at the desired tq. If yours doesnt it may be time for a new one/better one

acutee

Talking about being careful and use shop rag to block the metal shavings; I wonder if any mechanic would do that if they work on your car.

Edward'TLS

Agree. Tightening by feel will just end up getting the cover unevenly torqued.