Question on replacing the cylinder head 2.7L

Update, OP? What did you figure out? I'm about the start my head gasket job.

 

You probably won't get an answer as the OP hasn't been seen in a while:

DumpsterJedi was last seen: Nov 20, 2022

 

I agree with this. The FSM lays out the spec that determines whether they can be reused.

Also, FYI I've had problems using Fel Pro headbolts. Torquing them to spec resulted in a couple of the bolt heads cracking. This was in a matrix but the warning applies.

 

I could be wrong but I think some of the Rav4s and Matrix had problems with threads getting pulled out of the block?

 

The 2nd gen rav4 2.0

I have dodged the bullet on that job so many times, no idea how. I've watched techs absolutely struggle with the threads in the block. Righty tighty is righty loosey

Same with 5.4 spark plugs, I never broke a single one. I had a pretty good method and they were still only 5-7 years old max. Now I'm sure they are all breaking but at the time of my apprenticeship I had the golden touch.

 

I saw a couple Rav4 with external coolant leaking down the back, soaking that piece of foam under the intake.

I told them complete engine or im not touching it haha

 

I've heard that too. Didn't happen in my case, though.

The bolt head cracked when the last 90 degree turn was made. This only happened with two of the bolts but it made me suspect that they weren't made properly

I've done quite a few head gaskets in various motors so I was torquing the bolts to the proper torque and using nice smooth pulls.

 

I do a lot of subaru heads and some head bolt kits suck. The threads look like they've been shaken up in a bucket with a bunch of other bolts. Dented, bent, etc

I started going dealer only