Get a wobble or swivel

 

Same problem as above, brand and small differences in size can make a difference if they have clearance to fit at the firewall.
Some fit, some don't, and I tried alot.

 

i used this 1/2 wobble and the electronic 1/2 torque from Harbor Freight

 

Yeah, some work, some don't.
Overall height and wall thickness differences.
I used this 1/2" drive Mac socket with built on swivel(Mac, my only sockers and tools that rust, wth)
The 3/8" drive Matco is taller(and not really strong enough)
The Craftsman is much bulkier, and doesn't fit.
My friend's toolbox is in my garage too, so I tried several other socket and swivel combo's too.
I'm not arguing what's best, only that not everything will fit in that tight spot at the firewall.

 

Personally I'd be reluctant to use a swivel on a headbolt due to the changes in torque value that the swivel will impart. Any other bolt I wouldn't be *too* concerned about however given the high number of HG problems these engines are already prone to, this seems a bit risky. Regarding the fuel rail, my preferred method is to remove the fuel pump relay or fuse and crank for a bit to build oil pressure throughout the journals before the engine fires, especially with hydraulic lifters. If you have a gauge you can see pressure build (something is better than nothing) and then bring the fuel pump back online.

 

I agree that a swivel could slightly change a torque value, but if you torque the head bolts with the engine in the truck, you Need a swivel to get to the lower rear head bolt on each side.

 

@Sixpack577 and @ahab thanks for chiming in no way a swivel will work on mine, a small 80 ft pds torque wrench has a small enough head to get in there, I checked ratchet heads to figure it out the size I need.

I managed the 20 with a swivel barely.but I do not have confidence even it that.

The nice thing about studs and bolts iti s a torque setting and not an angle.

@ahab good suggestion and I have an oil pressure gauge going in

 

In hindsight, nothing 1/2" drive myself or my friend had would fit without a swivel for removal(while in the truck)
And last time and this time coming, putting heads on will be out of the truck.
I do have several torque wrenches, and my 3/8 drive may fit on the rear lower head bolts to torque it, without a swivel.
I'll check for curiosity once it's back in.
I think it still comes down to brand/shape/style, as to if your ratchet or torque wrench and standard socket will fit in there or not.

 

@Sixpack577 I will post an image and measurement of what end up using