Stripped valve cover bolt

2002 PONTIAC FIREBIRD
197,000 MILES • 3.8L • V6 • RWD • AUTOMATIC
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GATESTY
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  • 1 POST
I have been working on replacing the passenger side valve cover bolt "grommet" gaskets, and I have run into a problem. So, I was told by a friend that when I finish up this job, I need to make sure I tightened all the bolts on top of the valve cover down exactly the same. The problem is, one of the bolts was previously stripped, so I cannot get it off. I have tried everything in the book. My question is, would it damage my engine to put five of the six bolts back on as evenly as possible, while leaving the stuck one where it is? Will it warp something if one is not the same?
Jun 5, 2016 at 9:41 AM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 34,398 POSTS
I do not know about warping something, but there i's a couple of ways to address a stripped hole. One is to drill out the threads, then install a Heli-Coil insert. The people at the auto parts store will find the correct size and show you how to use them. Take a bolt along to be sure.

You can also poke in a piece of copper wire, such as 12 gauge house wire. That will take up some of the gap and it will deform to match and hook to the existing threads.
Jun 5, 2016 at 12:06 PM
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