Does ARP make a 455 timing cover set or can the 350 set be used? Also if going to a ARP balancer bolt which one is a better choice 12 point or hex head?
TA has the ARP sets for 455. ARP does not list a set. TA must put them together. Dont know about interchangeability of 350 and 455.
Thanks John. I'm just thinking I might as well use the best bolts possible during this build instead of using 50 year old hardware.
I think he sells the long timing cover bolts in ARP? Maybe he's pieced together a complete set using ARP bolts? I'll msg him and see, thanks for the ideas john!
There's not a thing wrong with the original GM bolts, provided they're not obviously damaged, corroded; or rounded-off on the wrenching surface.
There is no real need to pay the price of ARP bolts ffg or the timing cover unless you want to the look.......there isn't that much loading forces on it. I just went down to the hardware store and bought bolts the correct length
I here ya shurkey except some of the bolts I've pulled off this engine didn't look so healthy and some were just missing. The internal bolts all look new as the day they left the factory.
True Ben. Maybe a fresh set of grade 8 bolts just to keep it looking like a brand new engine will suffice.
TA sells a very nice set of stainless cover bolts, and then you dont have to worry about the electrolysis that binds and weakens these bolts. They have a small 7/16ths head so they dont exactly look OEM, but dont let that stop you. On the balancer, I like the 6 sided hex bolt myself, its a lot of torque for a 12 sided socket on those little corners...
At first thought, you would think a 12 point is more likely to round off, but it provides double the contact points to accept more torque. Off course you need to use quality sockets that fit correctly.
I agree the factory bolts are just fine for most applications. I do have Factory Style replacements but mine are Grade 8. Correct Flange Bolt style though so looks are correct, just stronger than OEM versions. I also have the ARP bolts here for those that want them. They actually work ok for those of you that do NOT have the 4) long Timing cover/Water Pump bolts. ARP uses a smaller head which actually matches the Water Pump bolts so they all kind of match size wise. Otherwise if you're using factory bolts you have to use a 7/16" socket on some bolts and a 1/2" socket on the others. Not a big deal but it keeps it consistent.
I get that in theory, and I know thats common knowledge but I still like six points better. I guess thats from growing up with all 6 point impact sockets.
