Thread: Cylinder head bolt question

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How safe is it to reuse cylinder head bolts on a 350? They aren't torque to yield or anything, but I just want to make sure.

Ya should be just fine if'n its an older block, the newer style blocks(1 piece rear main seal) use tourqe to yeild head bolts
and you can get em for about $30 per side from Napa.

What if it's an older style block with newer style heads? Do they use the same bolts?

well dang if I know (LOL)
not sure what ya mean by new style heads, the newer G.M. aluminum, or sumptin like Edelbrocks or such,
If they are Aluminum heads then your gonna need head bolts with the hardened washers, I think I would consult with the Head manufacturer or maybe give ARP bolts a call 1-800-826-3045

GM didn't start using torque to yield bolts until the "GEN III" engines (LS-1 and it's family) came about in 1997 beginning with the Vette. The same regular head bolts were used up until the truck small blocks were discontinued in most models by 1998. A few applications used the old Vortec 350 until the last 2003 GM Express vans built out. The old head bolts could be reused if cleaned and properly sealed. The exceptions of course would be any of the alloy head motors such as the LT-1s or any of the Tuned port alloy head motors which used the hardened washers. You could make a studded motor out of it but make sure you build it right on the 'stand cause in alot of applications you ain't gonna get the heads off "in chassis". Been there....done that!