Cracked head and manifold bolt question

[andy91145]

So I've had a blow for the last 2 months and was inspecting to see what is was, turned out to be the head and bolt snapped off on the 4th stud this happened to anyone else? Do you just have to replace the head?and gasket etc?

[TurboTobz]

it has happened to a fair few I've seen over the years.

Best thing to do is change the head and gaskets. Would be a good idea to rebuild the head with new stem seals, and possibly lap valves back in if you have the time while it's out.

[andy91145]

Thought as much, know of anywhere I can get a head and gasket without paying the earth?

[TurboTobz]

I actually have a complete head here and just sold a 1.2mm Athena, you can pick up gaskets for £20-30 oem spec. You can even find them cheaper 4efe and fte's use the same one, I'd sell you the head but I work so much sorting it out and sending it's going to be a pig.

A lot of forum member offered me cheap gaskets when I thought mine was on its way out, so try the wanted page, heads are also pretty easily come by all in all you should be able to get away with £100 area for head and gasket

[andy91145]

Thank you for your help I have pm'ed you

[AdamB]

You can get it alloy welded if you know a welder competent enough to take the job on.

[andy91145]

Yes I am currently looking at that option, proving difficult to find someone that does TIG/MIG welding

[djhasin]

I have the same problem.. crack at the 4th bolt.. ive tried using quick steel but can see a drop of water come out.. soon to get replaced though.. have you noticed any loss of power?

[AdamB]

Best thing you can do to prevent this happening is to cut down between the manifold webs , this reduces the amount of expansion and contraction the manifold undergoes during operation and also takes the stress out of the manifold

[RobSR]

...and dont overtighten the manifold nuts, which is what alot of people do, which is why they then snap or crack the head. torque them properly to spec.