Hey guys, I'm changing out my glow plugs and electronic valve cover gaskets. Two of the valve cover bolts on each side are hard to get to, and that is without bringing in the torque wrench when I put them back on. I've got wobble extensions as well, but still hard. My question is if on the hard to reach bolts, I don't use a torque wrench, but just a small socket set that fits in the confined space, how critical is it to get exact torque? I would obviously be estimating. Or, does anyone have a suggestion or trick to share to help me? Thank you.

 

Its your passenger side I bet, its not crucial to torque them just make sure you tighten in sequence so that the VC don't warp. Use a 1/4" short socket and ratchet, then get your hand down almost to where the exhaust manifold is at and loosen them /tighten them. Good luck.

 

I've never torqued them, I'm sure not many actually have.

 

If it leaks, I tighten them some more. If they don't, I leave them lol... I just use a 1/4" drive socket.

 

I have found that I can get to the hard to reach bottom bolts on the valve cover from under the truck, using a 1/4 inch ratchet. I have never used a torque wrench when reinstalling the valve covers, just snug them up good with that 1/4 drive ratchet.

 

Exactly what I have found, especially the passenger side.

 

I have been able to get a torque wrench on them before with the right combo of extensions and swivels but at that point the torque is no longer accurate so whatever fits the best and gives you the best leverage and snug it up like everyone else said.

 

13mm socket and 3/8 swivel wrapped in tape with 6 in extension






I have thought of making up a bolt with a bolt welded on top like the old t handles they use on hot rods but worried about them shaking off

 

There is a 3 piece set of socket drive adapters from Sears that leaves a hex headed nut exposed. Adds about 1/4" if height to the socket, but lets you drive it with a wrench.

I am sure there are others...but mine has been invaluable in some situations.