C-15 valve cover bolts

There is actually an update on those bolts for that very reason. The last truck I owned had a 6NZ engine, and I took it to my Pete dealer to have the overhead ran. They told me about the update and replaced all of the valve cover bolts. But what sucks is I had to pay for them.

 

If I remember correctly, the bolt kit was almost $200, which included gaskets. Either way, it's still high.

 

I agree. I don't know what is so special about them. It's not like they're holding the crank in or something.

 

The update bolts are required for the thicker updated seals, the older thin seals are no longer available so if you have to change a leaking seal you have no choice but to change the bolts. The new bolts have a slightly taller spacer crimped onto them. If you have broken the bolt you can use a normal bolt if you can get the isolation spacer off the broken bolt, be careful of you use a normal bolt without the spacer or you will crack the tappet cover.
I have never seen one break the bolt, normally you pull the thread out of the rocker box, seen that one so many times I.ve lost count.

 

If youre gonna change to the new gasket style, all you have to do is cut the isolation spacer "which is just a thick rubber washer" in half. That way the shorter bolt will work with the new thicker gasket.

Im not sure about just buying a new bolt. Seems like you ought to be able to go to fastenal and get a replacement.

 

Agreed! They are only valve cover bolts. I wouldn't worry about torque specs for something like that.