Broke a valve cover bolt

[underDAWG]

Trying to remove the valve cover, I broke one of the bolts Any suggestions how to extract the broke bolt out ?

Later,

 

[Wadula]

drill it out and get a new thread in there.

 

[underDAWG]

drill it out and get a new thread in there.

That was my thinking too. How did they install the bolt onto the head? Is it a threaded stud? Thanks.

Later,

 

[ScottMc]

I did this too. how serious a problem is this. I dont have too much experience engine wise... Do i need to get it fixed asap or will it be ok? My BMW is really only a project car so i'm not doing any mileage or anything.

 

[Wadula]

as long as you don't drive it a foot it is okay to have the car sitting there without cover. just make sure to protect it with something from falling dust and dirt. for driving you definetly need that valve cover.

for the thread, sorry but that exceeds my knowledge. did yout try one of those books that have a shitload of details and hints for the DIY repair at home?

 

[underDAWG]

I did this too. how serious a problem is this. I dont have too much experience engine wise... Do i need to get it fixed asap or will it be ok? My BMW is really only a project car so i'm not doing any mileage or anything.

I don't think it is fatal to require to fit it immediately. You may see a bit oil leak from the cover. If this bother you, you can always use some hi temp RTV.

I am going to tackle this weekend, I will let you know if I find an easy fix, will take some pics if warrented.

Later.

 

[ScottMc]

thanks man that would be a great help.

 

[Abdoman]

I would not drill it out. Get a reverse tap and drill and tap the broken bolt. That way you can unscrew the old bolt. This way you don't have to tap the head. You can drill the hole to large and create a possiblity of cracking the head