You can re use the head bolts if they are not corroded so that the strenght is compromised.? Wire wheel the threads. and chase the holes in the block.? If you cant find a thread chase the correct size, buty a suitable bolt at the hardware.? Then cut or cfile two or three grooves vertically perpendicular to the threads.? Then put some penetrating oil down the bolt holes and screw in the bolt two truns in one out till it bottoms.? Squirt in a bit more oil and back it out.? The groves will give the crud a place to ride as the bolt comes out.? Clean up the bolt and repeat in all bolt holes.

Below are pictured a grade 8 bolt, the stock head bolt ad a bolt from a Chevrolet 350 V8.? I replaced mine withthe chevy bolts.? I paid 18 bucks for 21 4 years ago.? Next pic shows the Pioneer Parts part number, the last 2 digits refer to the chev parts count.




got them through the machine shop that milled the head.? They have a coating on the threads so don't screw them in your ready to torque them down.

Remember to torque in increments, and in the sequence noted in the manual, and then don't forget to retorque after a heat to running temp session.

Thanks for the information Gents and the quick responses.  One learns something new every day. I appreciate the info. One more question for yous out there,  In regard to the Head bolts, Can you use ( re torque ) the same bolts or should I purchase new ones? and if so should they be a grade 5 or 8 ? I've been getting mixed answers from the guys at work. Thanks again for your time. I'll try and see if I can get a picture or two of the coupe in progress.  Thanks, Swany

  Your 40- 201 engine  has a 3 1/8 bore.  If it needs to be replaced, use a head from another 3 1/8 bore engine.   If you use a head from a 217 or a 230, it will bolt right on but you will wind up with lower compression because the chambers are larger.   Incidentally, you can raise compression on a 230 by substituting a head from a 217 or 201.

SPecs for the 40 and 41 engines are the same.? If it were me, I would take the spare head have it milled a bit .040 to .060.? for the 40 bucks it will cost you the boost in compression will be a cheap benefit.?

Swanzy
I believe that Plymouth went with the same block for several years. I dont call myself an expert but believe that that should work. Just my two cent.

Hi, Just got my engine for the '40 coupe back and have it installed in frame. I've got it started and runs great, but I noticed a leak of antifreeze between #4 and #5 cylinder on top of head. I called the business that rebuilt the engine, and they told me it could of been a weak spot and when they did the bead blasting it could of made the small opening. anyway they said they could take care of the problem. My Question is if by chance they can't repair the existing head, would a 1941 Plymouth head inter change? To me they both measure the same and look identical. Any help would greatly be appreciated!  Thanks