Valve cover bolt removal
 

Hi. New guy here. I did a search but came up empty. IM In the middle of replacing valve cover gasket on my 2008 trailblazer 4.2I. I have the cover off, bUt can't get the bolts out. Seems to be a keeper so they won't come out. The new gasket set came with new grommets for the bolts, but need to get bolts out to replace them. I don't want to force them for fear of buggering or breaking something. Any help would be appreciated. --Jim.

The bolts are only being held in by the grommets. They’re just stiff and unforgiving as they get older.

Heating them up will make them soften, then They can be pulled out easier using a trim stick or small pry bar under the head.

You can also turn the cover upside down and use a brass punch and hammer on the bolt tip.

Use a utility knife with a new blade to cut the grommets off the bolts.

Insert the bolt into the new grommet before inserting them back into the valve cover.

Thanks so much Grumby.