Head bolt torque

[Merc Speed]

My service manual says 30 Ft Lbs then a additional 90 degree turn for head bolt torque on my 225 pro max, is the way everyone is torquing there heads?

[DangerNewb]

Sure someone with more experience will chime in... but I think that's for when using new bolts. I think you are prone to break some off if they are being reused. Seems like I've read a torque spec for used bolts. Hopefully someone will share. I have broken one off.

[rock]

It is for new bolts. For used bolts I have always torqued to 35 lbs.

Rock

[Merc Speed]

I don't have new bolts what would you torque used ones too?

[Merc Speed]

35 LBS no extra turns?

[rgsauger]

35 LBS no extra turns?

Correct. And walk them up in graduations. 15 pounds on all of them and then 25 pounds on all of them and then finish at 35 on all bolts.

[Merc Speed]

Thanks everyone for help with this mornings project hopefully boating today!

[rock]

Be sure to oil the threads.

Rock

[Merc Speed]

Thanks Rock I will do that if you can help with my new post about combustion chamber size please do.

[Stoker boy]

If you use new head gaskets make sure and recheck torque after running the motor. Generally they will stay stable after two or three heat cycles.

[Dave S]

Streachy bolts........the 30 than 90/0 bolts are streach to yeald......I have re/used them...... but when taken down they seem losse.......they have a slash mark at the bottom of the bolt/thread......those are streachy bolts.........the ones to use are the early ones.......w/out the slash........30.... rod bolts..... 35 .....main bolts..... 40 head bolts......and when ya do the last head bolt..... is gives...... darn....break out the kit.......

[Merc Speed]

Can you still buy the old head bolts or am I better off to install a stud kit over the winter? I have rechecked torque once I will again next time I run it.

[rgsauger]

They are around but studs sure are nice. If you have time and $$, then hard to argue with studs.