So I got the drivers side head pulled, damned if I didn't have to remove the studs to get it out. Didn't want to go any other way that I could see; kind of defeats a benefit of having studs.
Anyway, looks like the previous owner used the older 4003 kit and not the newer 4301 kit. Anyone with a 3.5 my gift to you.

No pulled threads but definately a coolant leak at rear where water jacket is.

I'm just going to use the stretch since that's what I ordered before I found out it had studs in it.

On to another question, looks like a possible bolt missing from upper motor mount. It's missing from both sides. Attached are a couple of pictures, I've tried to probe that mounting hole (thinking beavis and butthead now) and I can barely see a matching hole in the block but there is also a deformity in the gasket on the head.
Sure seems like a bolt should be there but doesn't seem big enough to support any signifigant engine weight.
I've looked at RAVE and it seems like just two big bolts and nothing in the spot I'm asking about but just checking.
EDIT: EDIT: looking again at RAVE it does seem like a 3rd smaller bolt on the upper motor mount to keep it centered but it's not in the location I'm looking at.


Should one be there?

Thanks again folks.

 

Bumping this.
I've scoured pictures but can't tell for sure but it looks like a bolt hole for heat shielding.
Just want to make sure before I start putting things back together.

 

what side is it on and I'll look on mine and see what I got

 

Thank you, drivers side.

 

Its a heat shield for the motor mount to help keep the heat from the exhaust manifold from the burning the rubber bushing in the motor mount. Hope that helps

 

Very helpful, thanks man!!

 

When I crawled under my 99 D2 that upper part is connected directly to the block just below the head/head gasket.

 

Good info as well, I'll find a bolt.


I need help/advice on the stretch bolts I'm putting in right now.
I have done the initial 15 ft/lbs and the first 90* turn. Am waiting a few minutes before the 2nd 90* turn.
My question is the 1st 90* turn was very difficult to get accomplished, especially on the rear lower bolt at the firewall. I got them done but it seems I'm on the verge of snapping something if I go any further. Had to use the cheater bar.
I lightly oiled the bolts and under the bolt heads per instructions and the holes in the block were spotless.

I'm afraid to do the final 90* turn, someone give me some peace of mind :-)

 

I have stretch bolt on mine BC my wife put a money budget on me. Hopefully you didn't use too much oil to create a "hydrolock" situation. The final 90 is a pia. Just remember to mark em well with a paint marker or have an indicated dial and use a fluid motion and do it in the correct order by the rave manual. They can take more than that but just be fluid in it. And have a nice glass of makers and coke close by. It's gonna be a work out but it will pay off in the end

 

Ahhh, Makers Mark. Well done sir.

I'm certain I didn't create a hydro-lock, I've been a shade-tree mechanic for years. I'm comfortable with the "light" coating of oil I did. Just not comfortable with the amount of torque being applied to these bolts. I've done head gaskets on inline 6 Jeeps and don't recall being this afraid to get to torque spec. Then again those are not aluminum blocks.

I'll just suck it up and do the final 90* per instructions (yes I marked them with a paint marker) and cross my fingers.

Thanks again for your help...and everyone else's help so far.