Hershey Squirt

iTrader: (6)

I am getting ready for a head-cam swap and was wondering if I should use GM headbolts or get ARP bolts or studs? TEA heads and TR224.

Jabroni

GM head bolts are plenty satisfactory. ARP's may be a bit stronger than the OE bolts are. The studs will have the best clamping ability, but are not necessary by any means. If you plan on spray, go studs. The only pending issue with studs is sometimes they need a re-torquing sequence. That could be a PITA.

Classic

iTrader: (3)

Studs all the way. If you ever have to take your heads off again studs makes it much easier - especially for cleanup.

Big Stick

Studs are regarded to be the best alternative, however, you'd have to drop the motor to change the heads out (not enough room) so most people go with the ARP bolts.

Smoke T/A

I guess you have never changed heads on a LS1 motor with studs. There is more than enough room to put the heads on and take them back off with the studs in place. No need to drop the motor.

<---- Took heads off 3 times in car with studs.

Big Stick

Hmmm...you're right. When I was making this same decision, a couple shops talked me out of studs for that reason, and given how (relatively) tight the engine compartment is it sounded reasonable, but no, never used them.

I stand corrected.

Slowhawk

iTrader: (12)

I only use studs on the Head installs.They are stronger and I do not like torqing Head bolts into our blocks.The threads are never clean enough to give accurate torque stretch readings.

Smoke T/A

Sounds like they were just trying to make some more $$$ from you. Indeed it is tight but it can be done. Check this out HERE

P Mack

iTrader: (6)

Go with the studs. You'll never have to worry about stripping the threads in the aluminum block or cleaning out the bolt holes.

PurEvl

iTrader: (2)

you are a stud