Head gasket install questions

[TominMO]

Need to install a new head gasket on my B6 with rear turbo. I talked to Greg first, and have read my 91 Festy shop manual and the Haynes for Festivas too.

Greg said he wasn't sure if the B3 or B6 head bolts were torque-to-yield (meaning one-time use) or could be re-used. The manuals didn't mention this either way, and I expect they would if it were an issue. So I am just checking here in case I should be buying new head bolts.

Also--does anyone know the torque specs for the B6 head bolts? I expect they are the same as the B3, which are 56 - 60 ft/lbs according to both manuals, but don't know for sure.

Thanks!

[htchbck]

Specs are correct, two step tightening, 35-40, then 56-60. The sequence shows different between the turbo and the N/A, might want to take a look at the pic at the bottom showing installation/removal sequence. I'm pretty sure it has to do with it being DOHC vs SOHC, not anything to do with the turbo. I can't remember if yours is a turbo'd B6 SOHC or a true twin cam B6T. At any rate I'd follow the Festiva sequence for SOHC and the one below for DOHC, regardless of aspiration methods. Mitchell's does not mention the need for new head bolts, and they typically do call for them when required. I know I've never used new on the B3/B6/BPs I've worked on. I fact I'll be reusing the old ones tonight when I do the HG on Chuck Good luck!

[Pu241]

I believe all B series engines DO NOT use TTY (Torque To Yield) bolts so they can be reused, provided they haven't been over torqued.

As far as the head bolt torque spec, I don't have the 323 manual here at work, but can check for you when I get home.

[mckabe]

I highly recommend getting new bolts however it may be a hassle it is well worth preventing troubles down the road. All bolts no matter what stretch over time, in addition keep in mind that those bolts are twenty years old and go through thousands of heat cycles, meaning they get hott while your driving then you park it and they cool down. They are bound to be pretty weak. Replace them to prevent future trouble

[sc72]

Hello Pu 241, How is the new job going.

[Aaronbrook37]

I believe all B series engines DO NOT use TTY (Torque To Yield) bolts so they can be reused, provided they haven't been over torqued.

As far as the head bolt torque spec, I don't have the 323 manual here at work, but can check for you when I get home.

I was under this impression as well. I know that BPs and B6Ts are not TTY IIRC. But definitely keep us posted though.

[bhazard]

6 point bolts are try and 12 aren't ..iirc.

[Pu241]

Hello Pu 241, How is the new job going.

PM sent!

[htchbck]

6 point bolts are try and 12 aren't ..iirc.

Good info! And thanks for reminding me I need to make sure I have my 1/2" 12pt 12mm socket for tonight, and if not borrow one from work Thanks!

[TominMO]

Specs are correct, two step tightening, 35-40, then 56-60. The sequence shows different between the turbo and the N/A, might want to take a look at the pic at the bottom showing installation/removal sequence. I'm pretty sure it has to do with it being DOHC vs SOHC, not anything to do with the turbo. I can't remember if yours is a turbo'd B6 SOHC or a true twin cam B6T. At any rate I'd follow the Festiva sequence for SOHC and the one below for DOHC, regardless of aspiration methods. Mitchell's does not mention the need for new head bolts, and they typically do call for them when required. I know I've never used new on the B3/B6/BPs I've worked on. I fact I'll be reusing the old ones tonight when I do the HG on Chuck Good luck!

Thanks to all. And it's a B6, SOHC, not B6D. Has a rear turbo supplied by Greg.

[htchbck]

Use the festi installation/removal sequence then And ignore the one I posted

[FestYboy]

tom seat the headbolts to 70... and use copperspray on the head gasket like your life depends on it.
ebery B series headgasket that i've done has been this way and i have no leaks to show for it, including the Illinois car that i trained out and slapped a gasket on and drove back... still leak free.

[TominMO]

tom seat the headbolts to 70... and use copperspray on the head gasket like your life depends on it.
ebery B series headgasket that i've done has been this way and i have no leaks to show for it, including the Illinois car that i trained out and slapped a gasket on and drove back... still leak free.

Are you saying 70 ft/lbs is what the B6 calls for, or that I should go beyond the recommended 60 (of the B3)? Will the used head bolts take 70?

I ordered a Fel-Pro from my local McParts store. Should I copper-coat that one?

[FestYboy]

i'm saying to take the bolts to 70 to seat the head (oil the threads and washers before installing and use an accurate torque wrench or borrow one from somewhere). the block will take the extra 10ftlbs without issue, the bolts will likely take close to 200ftlbs before stretching their threads, so no worries there.
i use ONLY felpro gaskets and copperspray both sides before install, just mind which side it up. i promise you'll have no issues if you have clean surfaces durring the install process.

[festyfreak39]

i think you should get a miata cometic head gasket metal thin layer and up the bewst!!!!