I had a head gasket replaced under warranty. I am concerned that the techs didn't properly torque the head bolts. Can I simply pull the valve cover and check them myself? Is this recommend? I've read a few threads that stated this is standard procedure.

 

Yes you could re-torque them.

It's pretty easy to pull the valve cover. If they didn't replace the valve cover gasket and spark plug gaskets, now would be a good time to do so.

Also, if you are in there tightening the head bolts, maybe you would also want to consider replacing them with ARP head studs to hold better so that the head doesn't lift.


-Bink

 

If you replace you head studs with arp's your gunna have to pull the head. Just retourque the stockers and youll be ready to go. They can hold alot more than people give them credit for as long as your engine isnt knocking and leaning out like crazy they will hold.

 

You definitely do not need to pull the head.



-Bink

 

You do not need to pull the head, but many people have issues with the 1x1 replacement method for head studs on the 4G63. You can never be 100% certain that the head didn't lift a little bit causing the seal between the oil and coolant passages to break. If some spills out it can sit on the metal by where the gasket makes the seal and cause many slow leaks over time.

My advice (speaking from my own experience) is to just pull the head and do it right the first time. The stock head studs can handle a lot, but for a little over 100 dollars consider it cheap insurance. It is better you replace the head studs now than have to get the motor serviced because you lifted the head from boost and cylinder pressure down the road.

Good luck