I broke off one of the bolts which hold the hydraulic tensioner on. I am pretty sure it was not over-torqued but here I am regardless. There is almost 1/4" of thread left on the bolt. Is there any way to get the stud out without removing the entire engine. I am searching for out of the box ideas here as I don't have the equipment/$$$ to have someone remove the whole block to extract this stupid thing. That is why I am doing the job myself in the first place. Is there such a thing as a 90 degree drill, which will also fit into tight spaces? I also recognize it would be tough to be sure I am drilling square even if there was such a thing. I am hoping when extracting it won't be terribly snug since it broke off so easily.
My first instinct was to snug the bolt up and JB Weld what's left of it back in. I understand it is not optional - or even desireable - but the other bolt is tight and I am hoping this basically would keep the broken one in place and help keep the tensioner stable. I understand that this is a really critical part and if it goes, so goes the timing belt, valves, etc. and who knows how far from home. I am not liking the odds.
What are the chances I can find a mobile mechanic who might be able to work some magic with the engine in place? Is it worth it to call the dealer and ask them how much just to extract the bolt? Assuming a complete engine teardown is not an option - especially there. Any chance I could just let the engine drop enought to get at it with a regular drill. It seems like it would have to be a pretty good drop, maybe 8-10"? What is likely to break if I could do that - tranny, CV, or ??? Naturally it is the top bolt, not the bottom one but the difference is a matter of less than 2".
Any other options that aren't likely to bust the bank?
I am indebted to desmo888 and his sticky on the whole timing belt replacement epic. Except for this bolt it went almost exactly as scripted. I used the starter method to remove the crank bolt. I guess I will go to Autozone and borrow a chain-wrench to torque it back on.
I appreciate any suggestions that you can offer. Esepecially on a Sunday
My first instinct was to snug the bolt up and JB Weld what's left of it back in. I understand it is not optional - or even desireable - but the other bolt is tight and I am hoping this basically would keep the broken one in place and help keep the tensioner stable. I understand that this is a really critical part and if it goes, so goes the timing belt, valves, etc. and who knows how far from home. I am not liking the odds.
What are the chances I can find a mobile mechanic who might be able to work some magic with the engine in place? Is it worth it to call the dealer and ask them how much just to extract the bolt? Assuming a complete engine teardown is not an option - especially there. Any chance I could just let the engine drop enought to get at it with a regular drill. It seems like it would have to be a pretty good drop, maybe 8-10"? What is likely to break if I could do that - tranny, CV, or ??? Naturally it is the top bolt, not the bottom one but the difference is a matter of less than 2".
Any other options that aren't likely to bust the bank?
I am indebted to desmo888 and his sticky on the whole timing belt replacement epic. Except for this bolt it went almost exactly as scripted. I used the starter method to remove the crank bolt. I guess I will go to Autozone and borrow a chain-wrench to torque it back on.
I appreciate any suggestions that you can offer. Esepecially on a Sunday
