The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Too long coil mounting bolts hitting pushrods

I just happened upon this on my 235 during a gasket change. The rods don't look damaged, just polished. The bolt edge is worn down about 1/32" The PO must have done this years ago and it seems to run fine.
Anything I should check or look for to determine if there is any damage? I am not too confortable with major engine work. Obviously I will change the bolts.

Thanks

It depends on how worn the pushrods are. If they're just polished a bit replace the long bolts and don't worry about it. If there's a noticeable amount of metal gone you can get replacements, usually through your FLAPS.

Rebuilt my 61-261 and found the same situation with long coil bolts. Some of the pushrod was whittled away, but new pushrods were part of the program. I imagine there are a lot of engines with this defect. I learned to use the old bolts or investigate the length of replacement bolts for proper depth fitment. A lot of the newer bolts are in 1/4 inch increments and may bottom out in blind holes or protrude to far in thru holes. Aaaarrrrrgggggg somethin else to remember!!!

Thanks for your input. I will inspect them again but maybe they are ok. Of course the bolts had to line up with both pushrods. 1/4 " over would have made all the difference!