When replacing a cylinder head gasket, which type of head bolts should always be replaced

• A. Torque-to-yield
• B. Hex head bolts
• C. Durable bolts
• D. Permanent bolts

Answer: (A)

When resealing a cylinder head, you must restore the exact clamping force that holds the head to the block. Torque-to-yield bolts are designed to be stretched to a precise yield during installation, and once they’ve been stretched, they can’t reliably provide the required preload again if reused. Replacing them with new torque-to-yield bolts ensures the correct clamp force and a proper seal, reducing the risk of head gasket failure.

Other bolt types don’t guarantee that one-time-use reliability. Generic hex head bolts or terms like durable or permanent bolts may not be designed to achieve or maintain the necessary preload after removal, so they aren’t the best choice for a head gasket replacement.