Help,heads Bolt Washers

[RLE80L48]

A couple weeks have past since I placed my heads. I was in the garage this afternoon and guess what I found? I moved the box the new ARP head bolts came in and there were the flat washers that go with them. I have the heads all tightened properly with sealant on the bolts. Is this a problem or will I be OK without the washers? Yeah I had my head up my a$$ again.Whats New.

 

[Ken]

Hmmm... I would think the wise move would be to remove the bolts and install the washers as designed. I know you don't want to hear that, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

 

[RLE80L48]

Thanks Ken, Thats what I was thinking. Do you know if I'll need new gaskets or could I reuse the ones there?Is it possible to remove and replace the bolts one by one and not screw up the gaskets?

 

[Ken]

I could be wrong, but one bolt at a time may work fine, and save you a gasket change.

_ken

 

[JohnZ]

Drain the coolant first or it'll come out of the bolt holes when you remove the bolts.

 

[pauk]

Remove and install one bolt at a time is fine, no need to change head gaskets. I would check with the bolt manufacturer about the use of the washers, usually washers are only used for aluminum heads.

 

[Fishman]

Remove and install one bolt at a time is fine, no need to change head gaskets.

Did the same thing on a big block a few years back. No problems after taking them out one at a time and replacing.

 

[RLE80L48]

Thanks to everyone. I got through to ARP and talked to a tech. He said that ARP head bolts have a small radius under the head desgned in for strength. You really need to use the washers so they seat correctly. My engine is still on the stand with no fluids yet so I'm gonna try the one at a time trick. Thanks again,Ron.