Engine bolt length and Configuration

[Scott G.]

I just removed by fuel pump from the 66 small block and was going to use the remove the short bolt and replace with a long bolt trick in order to hold the push rod in place. When I went to remove the short bolt, I found that I had no bolt in the hole. Does anyone know what length and head configuration is correct for this application?

Thanks,

Scott

[Joe L.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Scott-----

The original bolt is a non-indented, grade 5 hex head bolt of 3/8-16 X 1/2".

By the way, whenever I use a longer bolt for pushrod retention during fuel pump replacement, I use a brass or nylon bolt. This ensures that no damage is done to the pushrod.

Use sealer on the threads when the short bolt is re-installed.

[Scott G.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Thanks Joe! I will dig through my box of bolts which I got when I bought this car aa a basket case 20 years ago.

Good idea on the long bolt as well.

Scott

[Scott G.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Joe:

I assume no washer? I did not have a 1/2. I wound up getting a 3/4 the hardware store and cutting it down to 1/2".

Thanks,

Scott

[Joe L.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Scott------

No washer was used; just a "naked" bolt. Cutting down a 1" bolt is a fine way to get a 1/2" bolt. I do this all the time. In this application, you can actually use a bolt of up to about 3/4" without causing any problems. However, the original bolt was 1/2" (or, very close to that).

[Mike B.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Can one of you wise gentlemen outline the long bolt fuel pump replacement procedure? I have suffered the misery of putting the pump back on while trying to keep the pushrod up. I'd like to learn a new trick for the next time. Thanks.

[Joe L.]

Re: Engine bolt length and Configuration

Mike------

It's quite simple, but it only works on small blocks; big blocks have no provision for the "bolt trick".

All you need do is to first remove the bolt in question (it's the upper FRONT motor mount bolt on the passenger side as used for pre-58 passenger car motor mounts).

Next, rotate the engine so that the pushrod is in the "fully retracted" position.

Then, install a longer bolt in the bolt hole and tighten it down by hand only. This will cause the bolt to bear on the side of the pushrod and retain it. I like toi use a brass or nylon bolt for this to ensure that no damage to the pushrods results. A 3/8-16 X 2" brass or nylon bolt will work well;

Install the fuel pump and torque down the retaining bolts;

REMOVE THE LONGER BOLT AND REPLACE WITH THE ORIGINAL SHORT BOLT. Use sealer on the threads.