Head studs, Any one here using them?
 

I would like to get head studs for my new engine build up but I have heared you can't pull your heads off with the motor in the car. I don't care if it is hard as hell to get them off with the motor in the car but does anyone know if it can be done? Thanks

I use ARP's and yes you can pull the heads with the motor still in the car. It's not that difficult, just have somebody there to help you out.

i know its next to impossible with the sn95's.........the brake booster is in the way, the only way i could get the studs in were to put the head on and then screw the studs in :(

Excellent, I was hoping that was the case. I've been told that the studs help keep aluminum heads from warping and aids in head gasket sealing. 91GTturbo do you have your block tapped for 1/2" studs? A machine shop told me that tapping 1/2'' studs on a factory block actually weakens the deck and is overkill on a stock block. Any opinions on this?

Nope, didn't do the block. I used the 7/16" to 1/2" studs (part # ARP-154-4005) with my Edelbrock heads and have had no probelms. I might mention though that I'm running out of fuel and haven't turned the boost up like I would like too. Once the new injectors and fuel pump go in, then will see.

As far as tapping the block for the 1/2" studs, I don't have any experience with it or know anyone personally who has done it. It does seem like overkill to me though, for what that's worth.

How would a stud hold down a head any better than a bolt. What is the reasoning behind going with studs.

Just curious,

It's my understanding that a bolt only 'pulls' in one direction whereas a stud is effectively 'pulling' in both directions via the threads on each end. This effect is what makes the stud a better choice than a bolt - in high performance applications where it's needed.

E

According to ARP, studs provide a more accurate torque reading. Something about the combined twisting force and pulling force that you get with a bolt throwing off the torque readings.

I could dig out the catalog, if you want, but that's basically what it says.

Take care,
~Chris

I use ARP studs in my setup also,no problems at all removing the heads and you can torque them down a bit tighter,the studs are basically used in racing applications as not to wear the block threads out due to frequent removal,and as Chris stated they are stronger and give more accurate torque readings,I recommend them highly.

Good post... I wondering the same thing about bolts and studs. I already have the studs and was gonna use them and find out about removing the heads in the car, when and if I needed to remove them...