reusing head bolts and gasket

[sam JFM]

Is it acceptable to reuse both items on am engine that's only just been put together and not yet run?

 

[MicKPM]

Head bolts *could* be reused but for price its not worth it imo. Headgasket I'd replace everytime.

 

[Ph1 Tom]

Yes. Measure the head bolts, if they are 117.5mm or less from under the head to the end of the thread.

​If it's a multi layer steel type and it's nearly new and undamaged it'll be fine. I've done this numerous times, nothing wrong with it

 

[mi16chris]

I know some ppl do it but no way I would reuse a head gasket , if bolts r with in spec it shops be fine

 

[Laine_16v]

I reused a HG and headbolts on one of my old engines, no issues at all. I wouldnt do it again though.

 

[Russ_16v]

For the sake of the price of a new gasket and bolts is it worth taking the chance? If it works you have saved your self about £80, if it doesn't work you will have to rip the head off again - i'd just spend the extra and put new ones on IMO

 

[Coops Mk1]

I did it on a 50 quid polo once, don't think i'd chance it on a pricey lump though

 

[Ph1 Tom]

http://www.vacmotorsports.com/faqsDetail.php?catID=10

Q: Can I reuse an MLS gasket?

A: Here is our take on this. If the engine hasn't been run very long (less than a few hundred miles or less than a few hours) an MLS gasket can almost surely be re-used if you have to remove the head.We go by that guide and haven't had problems. Some people get away with a longer period, but due to the fact everyone has a different project and variance in between, there is no standard suggestion.
One thing we can say, is that if the "black coating" layer on the top and bottom of the gasket has come off in any way during removal, it should be discarded and replaced.



I completely agree with the above tuner. This is how I do it.

 

[Cupman29]

http://www.vacmotorsports.com/faqsDetail.php?catID=10

Q: Can I reuse an MLS gasket?

A: Here is our take on this. If the engine hasn't been run very long (less than a few hundred miles or less than a few hours) an MLS gasket can almost surely be re-used if you have to remove the head.We go by that guide and haven't had problems. Some people get away with a longer period, but due to the fact everyone has a different project and variance in between, there is no standard suggestion.
One thing we can say, is that if the "black coating" layer on the top and bottom of the gasket has come off in any way during removal, it should be discarded and replaced.



I completely agree with the above tuner. This is how I do it.

​
​+1

 

[172lover]

head bolts off renault are €144 :/ (f7r engine)
HG set was €155
trade prices,


Still though I wouldn't be using the hg again!!
If I knew the head bolts...
I would use them a second time just give them a bit extra tightening.

wouldn't use them a third time though!

 

[Cupman29]

It's all about personal experience and mine has been good.
​
​Obviously wouldn't use an old hg but an mls one nearly new, I would.