What is the secret to getting the head bolts off? I'm using a 17 inch breaker bar and 16mm socket...I have only managed to get three off so far, stuck on the 4th in the series (according to RAVE manual)

Any advice is much appreciated.

2001 Disco II with approx 98000 miles. Bosch engine

 

What size drive are you using? 3/8"? 1/2"? Mine were on real tight. I used a 1/2" drive and a 4 foot breaker bar to get some off. Others came off without a breaker bar.

 

Maybe I need to go to the bigger drive. I was using a 17" breaker with 16mm socket 3/8 drive.

 

I busted two 3/8 drive sockets and a breaker bar on the first one before getting wise. I used a 1/2 drive deep 5/8 inch impact socket, with the end handle of my floor jack on the 1/2 drive ratchet and it worked great. The deep socket was the perfect length to clear the head.

One exception was most aft outboard on drivers side up against the firewall. I had to use a shallow 5/8 socket with a 1/2 inch universal. That one was a bit tricky.

On re-installation I used the same setup. After torquing to 15 ft/lbs I marked the forward edge of each bolt head with a white metal paint marker (available at any auto parts store) That way I could see exactly where I was for the 90/90 degree tightening.

 

1/2" drive 5/8" shallow 6pt impact socket with a breaker bar and a 4' cheater bar makes it easy. Get a 1/2" impact wobble extension to get to the rear head bolts.

 

Thanks Fellas....as always great advice.