Removing exhaust cover

[surrender]

Ok, I'am going to remove the exhaust cover on my 88 Special( bottom plugs seem to be getting alittle water on them, another thread). the lower bolt heads are rusted. They are not rounded off but the one I tried putting a socket on seemed ripe for a quick round off and then what? It looks like I'll need new bolts on at least 5 on the lower ones so the question is, do I risk rounding them off or just grind the off flush with the cover the remove the good ones, then work with the protruding studs and get them out after the cover is removed? If I grind into the coiver I may just get a new/used cover anyway so I dont think that would be an issue. Any tips?

 

[F_R]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

I haven't looked at the motor, but I sort of doubt that rounding them off will be the case if you use a 6 point socket. Even consider a slightly smaller (Metric) socket if they are really undersize.

The real danger is twisting them off. Then you have to deal with getting the busted bolt out.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

If you round off the bolt heads, try a pair of vise-grips on the bolt head. Sometimes that tool is strong enough to hold onto the bolt head to unscrew it. If you break some of the heads off, you still may be able to twist them out with vise grips, once the cover is off.

 

[surrender]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

Didnt have a round off problem. Broke 5 of as I suspected. Have removed 2 of the broken studs with a small vise grip. Ogher 3 are causing problems. Going to give penatrating oil a little time and go back.

 

[boobie]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

Get a mapp gas torch and try some heat around the broken bolts. Also give the bolts a few rapps with a hammer. This may also help.

 

[surrender]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

Go them out. Picking up gaskets tomorrow. All should go well.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Removing exhaust cover

Retorque those exhaust cover bolts after the engine goes through 2 or 3 heat/cool cycles.