how many times can you do the head?

[vdubt3nut]

Hello volks

(this post edited to rephrase more simply)

Does taking the cylinder head on and off (1.6td jx engine) weaken the threads in the block? In other words, is this operation something to be done in moderation?

Having worked on many 2-stroke engines and had crankcase threads go from over-use when torquing the heads down I'm wondering if this has ever happened to anyone with the vw blocks. I realise that it's a cast iron block versus the aly 2-stroke blocks but the torque involved is an order of magnitude higher also.

Many thanks
Pete

[kevtherev]

don't think... do it
get that gasket right

[vdubt3nut]

Hi there

Thanks for the reply. Sound advice and I agree that if one's certain it needs doing then no point faffing about.

But leaving that aside for a moment, what do you think of the general concern of weakening or stripping threads from over-use? My experience with 1.6td owners and mechanics is that they very rarely do the final torque down after 600 miles anyway for fear of stripping a thread or busting a bolt. I didn't do it myself once and paid for it about 10k miles later so ever since I make a point of it but it still hurts to do it and that is exactly what one is thinking - will the flippin thread go...

Any thoughts much appreciated
Cheers
Pete

[camper]

Provided the threads are clean & not binding on the screw threads i would think as many times you like. Replaced VW diesel head bolts proberly 1/2 dozen times on cylinder head removals.All ways cleaned out the threads ensuring any gunge oil or water is removed.But i see your point about the final torque it does make you wonder about a thread going.

[kevtherev]

A good thread gauge would settle any worries over a worn thread