Tecumseh head bolts

Tims A · Feb 6, 2014

Before I attempt this. I have to replace a valve
spring. I need to remove the head bolts (rusty) and
head. I"m looking for advice on removing these head
bolts without breaking them.

Thanks,
Tim

Tom Arnold · Feb 6, 2014

Bolt breakage is always a concern when dismantling an old engine. The problem is..... you cannot access the threaded area in order to use heat or penetrating oils.

About the only thing you can do is to strike the top of the head bolt with an air chisel that has a hammer tip inserted in it. The repeated blows may help to break the bond between the threads on the bolt and the threads in the block.

These are tempered (heat strengthened) bolts and if you apply heat, you often remove the tempering which makes it easier to twist the bolt off. If you do manage to get all the bolts out without breakage, then buy brand new bolts of the correct type. Use a tap to chase/clean the threads in the block prior to re-assembly.

Torque them in the correct sequence when cold and then re-torque them after the engine has been run long enough to bring it to full operating temperature.

Steve@Advance · Feb 6, 2014

Look in between the cooling fins just under where the head bolts on. Sometimes the bolt holes are drilled all the way through, good place to get some rust penetrant in the threads.

You can also GENTLY heat this area, using a brazing tip, try to pinpoint the heat around the specific bolt you're trying to get out.

What size is this motor? If it's a small engine, any possibility you could remove the spring retainer, push the valve up against the bottom of the head and pry the spring out?

Brian Dan · Feb 6, 2014

Have you tried to remove them or do they just look rusty to you?
Put a wrench on them and see what happens. The bolts might come out easier then you think.
Brian

Tims A · Feb 7, 2014

Thanks you guys for the tips. I have not tried removing them yet. Just concerned because they are old. This is a 7hp snowblower engine, probably 30 to 35 years old. I just needed some ideas incase I got a tough one.

Thanks again,
Tim

johnlobb · Feb 13, 2014

I do not think these motors are made in Tecumseh, Michigan anymore.

Tecumseh head bolts

Tims A

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Tom Arnold

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Steve@Advance

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Brian Dan

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Tims A

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johnlobb

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