Valve cover bolt issues

[Boos929]

The previous owner of my car stripped out the valve cover bolts to the head am I better helio coiling it not sure on spelling or am I better off getting a new head if so what cars had a head that works with our cars

 

[LordAthey]

In the past when this has happened to me I used a tap and die. I was just very careful when I did it and I was able to get bigger bolts. Never had an issue with it.

 

[JNR]

I wouldn't go as far as getting a new head, unless yours needs one anyway.

You can helicoil them, although there is a brand "timesert" (iirc) that are easier to install and supposedly more durable...

whatever route you go, lay down a bunch of towels/rags and use some grease on your bit/tap (if used), so you limit the amount of chips and be sure to clean up real well, as even a small piece of alum. shaving can wreak havoc on the engine internals.

 

[rdomeck]

You could always do the work one bolt hole at a time with the valve cover on. This takes care of two problems......1. You keep the aluminum chips from entering into the engine. 2. You have a guide to keep the drill bit straight.

 

[Boos929]

The heads fine car runs and drives just leaks a bit from valve cover and falls right on the manifold