[Jack E/NJ]

Hi y'all

Long ago I acquired an old farm tractor rigged with a '48 motor. It currently has two 3/8" headstuds as quick 'drill&tap' replacements for broken-off originals. These two small-diameter studs are separated by one normal 7/16" stud located near the top of #1 cylinder. It's been running this way for years. I've had the head off&on several times in the past without issues, taking care to tork the 7/16" studs before the 3/8" studs.


So what's my problem? I'm in the midst of doing other work. So should I try to replace these two small-diameter studs now? Or should I just leave well-enough alone? This isn't a showpiece or something critical...just a workhorse around the property. The 3/8" x 16 'drill&tap' jobs seem to have left most of the 7/16" x 18 block threads intact. But I fear any procedures for removing or chasing the metal remains of the old studs from the block might destroy what's left of the block threads.

Opinions, suggestions etc would be appreciated.

Thanks

Jack E/NJ