f head in my '52 3a... head hits firewall

[mrspeedyt]

I got inspired to replace the blown head gasket in my '57 f-head that a previous owner installed in my '52 3a. the head won't clear the firewall because of the studs screwed into the block. I'm thinking of using a  pair of vice grips to remove the studs and then replace them with head bolts when reinstalling the head. hopefully the studs will all come out without trouble. it's either that or somehow tilt the engine to clear the firewall :-/. where do I  find a set of head BOLTS? thanks!

[Bob W]

Try removing the motor mounts. That may give you enough space. You will probably need to remove the fan too so it doesn't hit the shroud.

[mrspeedyt]

Thanks for the tip! I had tried to jack up on the transfer case and discovered the transfer case is missing some of the lower mounting bolts (to the transmission) so the transfer case is hanging there by only the loose top bolt  I guess. my jeep has had a hard life. i will try to post some pictures soon.

[Gunslinger]

How do you get the motor mounts out, I trid on mine and I could not get the motor up high enough to sneak them out> advice?

[Bob W]

Try cutting the stud off even with the top of the nut.