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Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 19 Feb 2014, 21:52
by almo
All good stuff guys, thanks again for all the comments. Latest is they're trying to drill/tap it out (excuse the lack of correct terminology, I'm more of a desk jockey than a grease monkey!). The main dilemma has been wether or not to throw more money at the rising labour costs with no guarantee of success, or to cut losses and replace. We're going a bit further with the fix option so fingers crossed time again...
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 19 Feb 2014, 22:37
by CycloneMike
Have you considered a specialist stud extraction service. They will have it out no probs without scrapping your block.
Such as
http://www.extractengineering.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
You might need to Google to find one local you you.
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 21 Feb 2014, 16:36
by what2do
Almo, as of yet, I still don't think you've said where the van/engine is. where in Blighty are you?
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 21 Feb 2014, 17:29
by clift_d
what2d wrote:Almo, as of yet, I still don't think you've said where the van/engine is. where in Blighty are you?
I think the VW 'specialist' who broke the stud is based in Cardiff.
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 22 Feb 2014, 09:39
by almo
Breaking news..... The bolt is out and the head is on! After a great deal of blood, sweat and drill bits they have finally done it. Just waiting reassembly and the bill for labour which hopefully will be less than the cost of a new engine! We'll see early next week if it all works, but hopefully we're over the worst....
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 22 Feb 2014, 09:48
by almo
Yes I'm near Cardiff.
Thanks for all the suggestions and feedback, I would definitely ask garage to get a specialist in next time as they said they wouldn't do it again! To be fair to the garage they have been great and gone the extra mile as they didn't really want to attempt the repair because the labour costs soon mount up to the point wherein becomes a sensible option to invest in a new recon. Different I know if you are able to DIY or have a mate in the trade. These guys were the only place I could find around here that would even attempt it, so hats off to them (Welsh VW near Barry).
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 22 Feb 2014, 16:07
by clift_d
Barry…!!!???

Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 22 Feb 2014, 17:42
by Plasticman
barreeeeeeeeeeee island
mm
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 22 Feb 2014, 17:58
by what2do
Good result for you mister.
Why oh why, do people drill these things out when it's easier and quicker than using a mig to extract them? I may have to put together a vid at some point and then others on here with a mig can have a go. Not renowned for my IT and media skills though so it may be on the back burner for a while!!!
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 23 Feb 2014, 20:49
by itchyfeet
Email it to me and i will do it, after all it was my engine you did

Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 01 Mar 2014, 17:18
by almo
So all's done and dusted and had it back yesterday. New MOT too and the rebuilt motor is running lovely. The whole experience has made me realise that a rare beast like this is not getting any younger and needs more love than I can give it. I will put some pictures up soon on a new thread to see what you guys reckon I should ask for it, or if anyone has a suitable t4/5/6 that we could part-ex it.
Thanks again for all the responses and suggestions. Cheers.
Re: Just 3 head bolts?
Posted: 04 Mar 2014, 23:25
by almo
Final footnote, see my new thread entitled "89 Syncro with LPG - What's It Worth" for pics, description and request for price advice.