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bobbber · Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2008 1:37 pm Post subject: Leaking 16v head cover

What next? Rolling Eyes

Well, go under the P4 this morning and find out the head cover gasket is leaking oil at one of the bottom corners. So I think "I'll slightly tighten the bolts there and see if it stops" only to find the thread seems to have given up the ghost there! Surprised

What do I do now? Can I use some of that paint stuff (can't remember what it is) to stop it leaking for a while? Anyone think I can cut a slightly larger thread in this and get away with it?

HELP! Laughing

Bob
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Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

bobbber · Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2008 1:51 pm Post subject:

Perhaps loctite a stud in there instead and put a nut on the end... I'm *thinking*!
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Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

john 33_16v · Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2008 2:27 pm Post subject:

Argh!! Nightmare.

did you fit new gaskets?

Don't know what the paint stuff you mention is.

If you can get the tools in i'd be tempted to try and run a tap (or die- the male one) into the existing thread of the correct size to hopefully reclaim it.

failing that possibly try tapping next size up with care if bolt will clear hole in cover etc etc.

Dunno if the loctite stud idea'll work- might not take because of the oil.

For stud fixing there is a brilliant 'bodgers dream' paste called 'Chemical metal' it is very strong, but again may not take.

Good luck

John
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If it aint broke, fiddle with it until it is!
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lee16v · Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2008 2:37 pm Post subject:

I would have thought it will take the next size tap/die as there's enough 'meat' around it. You'll probably have to drill the cover to take the bolt though. And then you have all the access problems!!
Re what John said, unless you get the hole surgically clean the locktite/chemical metal wont hold.
Our cars are testing our patience at the moment then Bob?!!

bobbber · Posted: Wed Jun 04, 2008 2:58 pm Post subject:

Lee, Yes, you and me both tested here mate! Laughing

John, it was new gasket yes, and hylomar in there too. I think it's failed simply because the thread is broken Crying or Very sad

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Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

baldy · Alfasud Joined: 23 Jan 2006 Posts: 67

The stud idea and locktight with a nut should work if you clean the area well. if not you should really get a helicoil fitted to replace the damaged thread.good luck