QuestionI replaced the exhaust manifold gasket and now one of the studs can't be tightened to the specified torque and there is a slight exhaust leak (which will, I am sure, get worse). It seems that either the stud or the threaded hole is worn and the stud turns without tightening. I'd rather not remove the head again for drilling, helicoil, etc etc and am looking at some possible short cuts.
Is it possible to wrap the stud in aluminum tape (I'm assuming that teflon tape won't take the heat) or something else to tighten up the fit of the stud in the hole?
Do you have any other suggestions?
I plan on selling the vehicle soon and I want to make sure that the new owner won't have to get this problem re-fixed.
Thanks!
AnswerIf you can determine what is stripped, and it is the stud, perhaps you can double-nut it so you can back it out of the head and replace it with a new one, after chasing the threads in the hole.
Having to pull the head to heli-coil it is a pain, for sure, but it is probably the only right way to do it.
I don't think anything you wrap the threads with is going to help much, but I admit I've never tried it. It would have to be something metal, but I don't think aluminum foil will be tough enough. Perhap you could try some 0.010 brass shim stock.
Manifold leaks tend to get loud when the engine is cold, then close up when it is hot. Perhaps it won't be so bad that it has to be fixed?
Good Luck,
Dick
