can't torque head bolts

[b0mbtrack]

ford omc 5.0L
two of the bolts can't torque down because the threads in the block are stripped. They were rotted away because they go right into a water passage (salt water engine). Tried to tap to the next size larger thread but the bolt wouldn't get near the correct torque.
can't heli-coil it because the threads don't bottom out.
Other than doing a half *** job i think it would be best to get a new block.
Anyone know any other tricks that would do the job correctly

 

[b0mbtrack]

Re: can't torque head bolts

1995 engine

 

[Bondo]

Re: can't torque head bolts

It doesn't have to be a Blind Hole for Heli-coils,......

If that doesn't work,.....
I Agree,.... you need another Block......

 

[SuperNova]

Re: can't torque head bolts

You can drill the hole way over sized to get to good metal, and install a pipe thread plug (probably 1/4" npt or larger) and then drill and tap the pipe plug. This is how my machine shop repairs them. You put the head on and use it for a guide to drill the new hole. The pipe plug doesn't need to be welded in, you can use red thread-locker and then file it flat. Or get a new block. I also agree with Bondo(even though he's full of it) that a heli-coil should work fine as well.

 

[whywhyzed]

Re: can't torque head bolts

if 2 are that rotted, I'm sure there's more waiting to fail.

 

[Don S]

Re: can't torque head bolts

Anyone know any other tricks that would do the job correctly

I'm with kjd, the rest have to be just ready to go. Anything you do is only temporary till the next thread lets go.
Time for a new engine. And if you are going to be in salt water, get a fresh water cooling system for the new engine.

 

[b0mbtrack]

Re: can't torque head bolts

thanks for the help, new block i think would be the way to go. to go through with all that work and have a chance of it coming back isn't worth it. thanks