Head Bolts: 1987 2.5L

[NickyV]

I'm looking at doing my head gasket. Trying to figure out which bolts I need. It's a 1987 2.5L.

 

I'm not seeing any kits online specifically for the 2.5L, and based on the 1987 parts manual, it's not entirely clear to me how many I need with studs vs without studs. It just says "AR" or "use as required." But I'd like to replace them all.

 

Pretty sure I need 10 total, but can anyone tell me with certainty how many I will need of #10, #9 and #8 to replace all of them?

 

[eaglescout526]

Yeah you need ten. When I did this I ordered new bolts fro ARP I think. Man it was many years ago. If your head bolts come out in hood rust free shape, don’t hesitate to reuse them. If they come out questionable like how bolt 7 probably will because it sits in the water jacket, then I’d get new ones. As far as the two measurements go for 8 and 9, im not sure. You’d have to see what comes out of your head when you do the gasket. But if I recall when I did mine, there supposed to be 3 of the studed bolt. You can always look at what’s on now. 
 

Maybe try searching “Jeep 2.5L head bolts” and see what pops up. Pretty sure the bolts went to a 12 point bolt head later on like in the HO years but there should be the hex head too. 

[NickyV]

Thanks. I gathered that things changed in the HO years. But I've also read that at some point around 1987, they started using torque-to-yeild bolts. Really want to make sure I do it right!

[NickyV]

Lol. I definitely didn't read the parts manual closely enough. It literally says I need five of the 3.75", one of the 4.52" and the rest are "as required," which would be four. And that is exactly what it looks like under my hood too.

 

[Eagle]

Even the 2000 factory service manual says the head bolts can be reused one time.

 

Quote

CAUTION: Engine cylinder head bolts should be
reused only once. Replace the head bolts if they
were used before or if they have a paint dab on the
top of the bolt.

 

[NickyV]

I appreciate all the advice. I’m just going to order new bolts. Maybe I’ll need them. Maybe I’ll just want to use freshies.

 

Does anyone know much about the one 4.52” bolt that the parts manual calls for?

 

That’s the only one I’m having trouble finding online.