[Vwdiesel] More Dasher?

[William J Toensing]

I found two 12mm studs donated from my Rabbit were 12mm at the block end & 11mm at the head end. I drilled the right front hole per recommendation of the 12mm tap into the water jacket &then tapped it. Was able to drill deep enough on the left middle front bolt hole to get enough new material with out hitting a water jacket or anything else. Will use my 11mm bolts for the rest of the engine. If this doesn't work out, I have what appears to be a good block from one of my Rabbits plus two complete engines, one '80 Dasher & one from the other Rabbit.
I have another question. I find a 3/8th" fine thread hardened nut screws easily on to the 11mm side of the stud. Will this hold up OK to the 65 foot pound final torque requirement for the head? The local parts houses don't stock any 11mm taps, Hilo-coils, bolts, nuts, or studs. Which is the best source for the 12mm (both ends) studs since I may need to rebuild the Rabbit block, or want to for a spare engine if I am able to save the '81 Dasher's engine. I like the idea of non-stretch 12 mm racing studs.