I need to shorten the valve-cover bolts for my new AFR heads. Can I just run a die (sp?) up to the top of the threads and then use a hacksaw or cutoff wheel to remove the length I need and then run the die back down to clean up the threads?? If so, does anyone know the thread size for the VC bolts??

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Riccioli Performance Motorworks

--RPM Racing--

Getting there.....383 with Super Ram, Bosch 24# SVO's, MSD, Edelbrock 58 mm TB, 700R4 tranny, Eibach springs, Koni 12 way adjustable shocks and struts, and more!! Now let's pray it runs when it's all back together!!!!

 

The threads should be 1/4-20. You might be able to run a die further up the bolt, depends on how tough the steel is.

 

i'd just buy some 1/4-20 bolts the right length

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ICON Motorsports
1st & 3rd
MM Black Diamond 538 F&AM

 

That's what I always do to shorten bolts. Thread a die or nut up the bolt and use a hacksaw or sawzall to shorten it. I generally only do that for non-critical bolts--the last ones I did were exhaust manifold bolts.

ede, I don't see any possible harm in shortening valve cover bolts.

 

I just use a hacksaw. no problems here.

 

I found an easy way is to do with a cutting disk on a Dremel.

 

Gotta agree, dremel works wonders for these tpyes of things.

 

I would just go buy the right size screws for it in stainless steel if I were you, but if you must shorten the ones you have I always clamp the part of the screw your going cut off in a vise, then use a hacksaw to cut it off and deburr the end with a bench grinder.

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92 Camaro RS 5.0 5-Speed (Quasar Blue)
T-Tops
14" Open Air Cleaner
3.08 Posi-trac
Edelbrock TBI Intake
Crane cam
Ported & polished stock heads 3 angle valve job
HyperTech Chip
UltraFlo cat-back exhaust

74 Dodge Dart Sport 360 (11.2 1/4 mile)

2000 Dodge 1500 Ram Sport

 

Just put a nut on there before you cut'em and save wear on your dies.