Can i reuse head bolts?

[n00b]

So, I have a jdm b18cr, have skunk2 stage 2 cams, valves and retainers.

My question is, since I am doing the valves (head must be removed) should I just get a new set of head bolts? or is it safe to reuse them?

Also, will I need to get grinding paste for the new valves?

Thanks.

[u mad?]

Aslong as dey not stretched son

[mocchi]

[Setanta]

You "can" but I don't. I prefer peace of mind and by the time I've taken a set out and had them tested I might as well have just bought new ones (OEM or ARP). I hate torquing a head down ony to get the feeling that one doesn't quite "feel right".

[n00b]

Any tool to tell if they are stretched? I think I'll just get a set of new ones. Know where I can get them?

And will them valves need grinding with grinding compound?

[iNfusi0n]

^ Usually head bolts have a yield point and torquing them down will pass this point. Once passed they will be out.

Best bet get a new set.

[DVS-00R]

Do not re-use them, get new ones.

[EKVTIR-T]

Get some ARP for piece of mind

nothing worse than later saying shoulda woulda coulda m8

[mocchi]

you need proper stretch on the bolts. not just about the lbft reading on your wrench

[curtis265]

^ Usually head bolts have a yield point and torquing them down will pass this point. Once passed they will be out.

Best bet get a new set.

agreed, i'm sure they were quite close to their yield point, go for new ones

you need proper stretch on the bolts. not just about the lbft reading on your wrench

i'm sure the lbft reading on the wrench corresponds to a particular tension on the bolt........... when in brand new condition

[curtis265]

Get some ARP for piece of mind

nothing worse than later saying shoulda woulda coulda m8

i also cannot agree with this more

when building an engine it's critical that you don't stuff anything up

[mocchi]

i'm sure the lbft reading on the wrench corresponds to a particular tension on the bolt........... when in brand new condition

now i know why manual says need to lube crankshaft bolt on the washer