Plastigauge quaestion

[kevinm]

If is just finished installing new rod bolts and want to double check things on the crank by using plastigauge will i defeat the purpose of single use stretch bolts i bought from vw?  Also has anyone installed new rod bolts by drawing them in with the nuts? 

[Vincent Waldon]

If is just finished installing new rod bolts and want to double check things on the crank by using plastigauge will i defeat the purpose of single use stretch bolts i bought from vw? 

Yup... if you torque 'em all the way.

You can re-use your old bolts for checking the dimensions... or use your new bolts and just don't torque 'em the final 1/4 turn that stretches 'em into their final shape but probably has very little impact on the actual clearance.

[fatmobile]

When using plastigauge I want it to stay in place.
 It's petroleum soluable so can't stick it in place with grease,.. easily removed with solvent though.
 ...So I stick it with silicone grease.

 Wondering what everyone thinks about that.

 Gotta agree, probably doesn't smash much more with that last 1/4 turn.