Ok, since I'm installing a new head tomorrow, I need a question answered really quick...

I got the complete upper gasket set and I've replace everything, I also got an MLS gasket with it. As for that rear bolt, should I add a washer or shave the bolt? Is either one more effective?

I'm also changing my head out with one from a 99... I've seen people post that this problem was fixed with the 99 and I've also seen people post that their 99's head gasket is leaking from the infamous spot.

So what's the short of it? Don't need to or need to modify the bolt and if so; should I use washer or shave method?

If I'm shaving, I've only got a dremel so that could get a bit precarious.

Thanks!

I just shaved mine, I dont know if adding a washer instead would be the same. You would think it would. As for cutting the bolt, no matter how you cut it, make sure you find a nut that fits that bolt and screwed it on past the point where your going to cut it. This will make it to where the nut will rethread the bolt as you take the nut off. Of course using a dye like I did is more ideal, but you gotta use what ya got. You might also be in better shape if you just go and buy a hacksaw.

Just my 2 cents, good luck

When i had the head off my car for the first time, i just used a bench grinder and shaved the bolt down..I suppose you could use a washer, but some washers are softer than others, so if you do, you should use a hardened washer(like what comes with ARP head studs)

I couldn't imagine using a washer on something like that. Just get shave the bolt down. You should be fine with a Dremel as long as you got a good wheel and a vise but I would just find someone with a grinder and save yourself the headache. That's just me though. :shrug

I'd be concerned with using a washer. Not all washers are flat, so some of the torque that you put on the bolt might wind up going to compressing the washer instead of holding the head on.

Then again, with a TTY (torque to yield) bolt, you really only need to be in the ballpark.

I'd recommend getting ARP head studs, but if you won't spend the money on a $5 hacksaw, you won't spend the money on $100 studs, washers, and nuts.