JonnyCap

Huh. That's the same plate and bolts it looks like (not new ones), so I don't know how that could have happened. The top one almost looks cross threaded, but maybe that's just a shadow? And you did all 4 hand tight before tightening any of them down?

Deven Davidoff

Something fishy going on.... also you're planning on using that tensioner? I was told they can fail and make a mess.

96GS#007

I'd pull all four bolts out (keeping track of which ones were where). Use the other two bolts to see if they'll seat....no need to torque them....unless the two original bolt threads show signs of being cross threaded or if metal shavings come out of the holes. If the bolts do seat, install the other two bolts in the remaining holes and gently seat them, then torque to spec. If the "new" top and bottom bolts don't seat (when using the alternate bolts), you likely cross threaded the holes.

I would use something like a Timesert NOT a helicoil for the repair.

scoterman1

Yeah those are the original bolts and plate. I cleaned up the threads on the bolts. They seem to go in fine without a a fight. I hand tightened them. I had the torque wrench out so I put 11 pounds on them but that didn't help. I tried reseating them again but it didn't seem like that plate had much play to begin with. I guess I'll just keep track and see if I can get any of the bolts to seat all the way in the top/bottom holes.

irok

Did you bend those bolts some how?They should pull down flush.Earlier cars had hex head and no counter sunk holes in that plate.Loosen all the bolts and try to pull down evenly.Do not fully torque one bolt at a time!!!There's usually enough clearance in the holes to move the plate slightly to get it to line up better.With the plate removed see if the bolts will go all the way in.I always use new bolts in the new plate because you can't change the gasket on it and make sure your torque wrench is properly calibrated.Check for correct torque on the plate bolts as the earlier hex head bolts called for 18 lb/ft but counter sunk bolt torque may be different