Well i have a nice dilema. The lower optispark bolt that holds it to the block broke off when i went to remove it. From looking at the others it broke right where the threads started. I can't see it cause it is on the other side of the timing chain cover. Pretty sad, it broke with a 1/4 drive ratchet and minimal pressure. What should i do now, how do i get it out?

 

You probably don't have a choice but to pull the timing cover and then try and use a bolt extractor.

And then if that doesn't work, you would have to drill and tap the bolt hole.

If you have access to a machine shop...there is also a method of welding something on the broken off part to allow the removal, but they probably couldn't do it with the engine in the car.

 

If you take the timing cover off is any of the bolt going to be sticking out of the block? If so, it would be easy to grab with pliers (or even your fingers maybe) and turn it out. If it is broke below the level of the block, maybe you can get it witha n EZ out.

Dustin

 

I judging by how long the broken piece was it seems to be below the deck of the block. Guess the timing chain cover is coming off.

Does this bolt happen to go into a water jacket?

 

I don't think it does.

 

Ya my buddy broke mine off to with a 1/4 inch 5 inch long ratchet. Those bolts are the ****tiest quality ever made.

If its the one on lower left, no water jacket.

We tried to use screw extractors etc to no avail. Finally drilled and tapped. Put new bolt in (bought from autozone, they have right size) and lots of black rtv. So far so good. You will need to pull timing cover.

 

Couldnt you just fill the hole in the timing cover to prevent any oil leaking through it and forget about the broken bolt, sure its less support but im sure it has plenty with the other bolts. Just a quick not well thought through thought???

 

Not only a timing cover bolt, but also holds the opti on. Not good idea

 

Ahh, there is the problem with not reading fully and making comments, disregard my statement.