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AERA Technical Bulletins – October 20, 2021

First and Second Design Head Bolts on 2004 GM LS Engines

The AERA Technical Committee offers the following information on the first and second design head bolts used on GM LS engines. It’s been reported a head bolt design change occurred mid model year of 2004. Obtaining the correct new bolts is required for these onetime use head bolts.
First design engine blocks have different drill and tap depths using both medium length 3.937” (100.000 MM) and long 6.102” (155.000 MM) M11 cylinder head bolts. Second design engine blocks use only the medium length 3.937” (100.000 MM) bolt with a common drill and tap depth.

Valve Seat Removal for Diesel Engines

The AERA Technical Committee offers the following information on a suggested method of valve seat removal for diesel engines. This procedure is intended for cylinder heads that have previously installed valve seat inserts for either exhaust or intake locations.
This procedure involves a supply of discard valves of various sizes and the use of a bench grinder and welder. Follow the steps listed below while referencing the appropriate illustrations.

Dressing Up Your Gaskets

BY STEVE SCOTT

Putting additional gasket sealant or gasket maker on a quality gasket is similar to putting ketchup on filet mignon. Each may be good on their own, but where gaskets are involved, they may not be the best combination. There is a variety of gasket makers and flange sealants available and putting gasket maker on a conventional gasket is one of the most common errors of all. These compounds are engineered for specific applications and understanding where and when to use them is important. In some instances, they can keep the gasket from sealing properly. Typically, if an added sealant is needed, the manufacturer will bead the gasket. This controls the amount (height and width) and provides a uniform seal.

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Podcast Episode 12 – Torque Plates

Steve and Chuck take a deep dive into the why you should use a torque plate when honing the cylinder block and its importance. Also, do you know which car manufacture and model just hit the 50 million mark in sales? They will inform you as well as which engine hit the 2 million production mark in 1955. Take a listen and subscribe to the Engine Professional podcast!

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