Head Bolts Loose

[JeffHicks]

So I pulled the head on my newly acquired '04 V70 T5.

As I'm digging into it, it's obvious that there has been some work done within the last couple years - specifically, new timing belt and components, etc.

When I go to crack the actual head bolts, I find that almost all the bolts on the exhaust side of the cylinders are little more than finger-tight. The very front one was tight, with the rest progressively looser. It comes as no surprise that, once the head was off, I found evidence of compression blowing between all of cylinders 2-5. I believe I know why the head gasket was leaking.

Do you suppose this was just an oversight, or did the previous mechanic re-use the old bolts, or both?


Also, and most importantly, do any of you apply any kind of thread-lock on head bolts when installing them?

[JDS60R]

You will need to have the head cut level and use new head bolts anyway. I would not use thread locker on head bolts. You can use ARP Ultra torque lube so you get accurate torque readings.

Sometimes head bolts are put in dry or with too much oil. These methods show improper methods as the threads bind up and some of the torque you think you are applying to the bolt is just a reflection of the improperly lubed thread or if overfilled a hydro-locked bolt.

I would bet yours were done dry. Either way - move forward - do it right -and take pride in your results.
I am seeing more and more botched jobs locally. Not sure why but the trend is undeniable.