Helicoil for Edelbrock heads, is it necessary?

[SFM5S159]

Guys,
I am building a 428 with Edelbrock heads and I have read a few cases where people pull the threads/bolts out of aluminum heads. Is this a common problem? Should I have all the bolt hols helicoiled from the start?
Thanks in advance....
MC

[trularin]

I have worked on a good assortment of machines and when we were putting cutting tools into an aluminum base, we helicoiled all the holes. Used some nasty locker type paste to bed them once installed.

Hope this adds to your confusion.

[CobraEd]

I thought that all Edelbrock heads came with all the holes helicoiled. My SB performer RPM heads came that way. It is one of the reasons that I selected Edelbrock. I think that none of the other brands of aluminum heads have this. The last thing I needed was to be torquing down on a header bolt and having all the threads strip out

[SFM5S159]

I just checked out their website and yes, it seems that the rocker stud holes and exhaust holes are helicoiled. I guess the intake mounting is not a concern? I think I will do them as well to be safe.
Thanks,
MC

[undy]

I stripped out 3 or 4 holes for the intake on my Eboks, definately no heli-coils. Ensure you use bolts just a little longer (1/4" or so) than the stock intake bolts. It's give you that x-tra thread contact that you need.

Dave

[Barry_R]

Just as an FYI - - all Blue Thunder heads use stainless time-serts at all fastener locations, and integral hard washers at head bolt positions.

[jwd]

My SBF Edelbrock performer heads have heli-coils in ALL holes including the intake bolt holes and sparkplug holes.

[CobraEd]

Yeah, Mine too!

[Cobrabill]

Anti-seize!!!!!!!

[Anthony]

Originally Posted by SFM5S159

Guys,
I am building a 428 with Edelbrock heads and I have read a few cases where people pull the threads/bolts out of aluminum heads. Is this a common problem? Should I have all the bolt hols helicoiled from the start?

I too had thought the aluminum Edel heads had all holes helicoiled. One thing to make sure is that you don't bottom out any bolts in the holes. I definitely would check depth before fastening down tight.