On the head bolts I was told they stretch a certain amount when they are torqued causing them to hold the torque setting. The new head bolts i purchased were abour 3/16" shorter than the ones that I puleed out which had been used atleast 3x.
The 3/16" you mentioned is probably just the difference in MFG specs. They will stretch some as well. The amount of stretch might not be noticeable by the eye unless measured. When they say "Stretch" they don't mean that much. You're only talking several thousandths of an in (.000") when a bolt is torqued. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with using new bolts. To err on the safe side is always good.
I was told not to do this, something about holding a container of fuel and backfiring through the carb. Possibly burning toby.
This is why I suggest carb cleaner since it is in a sealed container and will resist catching fire if your carb should cough.
