3.9 - New head bolts?

[paulcnb]

Hi,
I am rebuilding a 3.9 Disco engine with an "A" suffix engine number. The heads are the 10-bolt type. My workshop manual says to purchase new bolts for engines with a "B" suffix, but it does not seem to recommend the same for "A" suffix engines.

Would I be wise to buy a new set of head bolts anyway - or is it safe to clean and re-use the bolts I removed from the heads? Your advice would be appreicated.
Regards,
Paul

[Traco]

If it's got stretch type (which if it's a 3.9 it should have) I recommend you ditch them and fit Rover SD1 non stretch type or ARP stud kit.

Not a good idea to re-use stretch bolts and some engine gurus firmly believe they contribute to the notorious block cracking/ slipped liner syndrome (in fact Mark Adams is convinced they are the main cause).

[Blknight.aus]

to tell if you have the stretch bolts....

have a look at the bolt. just under the head will be a small lip, then it will be machined down for a lenght of the shank before stepping up to the original size with the thread cut in it.

they are stretch bolts and as far as holding heads down is concerned are one use only.

[paulcnb]

Thanks Gents - very helpful. The bolts do have the machined shank, so I will buy a set of new bolts and bin these.
Regards,
Paul

[Blknight.aus]

keep some of them for use when you dummy fit stuff or for use as drifts and the like just put a good slice through the head so you cant mistake them for unused bolts.

[clubagreenie]

Please buy studs, please buy studs, please buy studs...