I am getting ready to buy 5.3 patriot heads on my 01 camaro what else am i going to need when i install the heads, i just ordered 42# injectors and i am getting ready to order the racetronix fuel pump kit

 

New head bolts, motor oil, coolant. Possibly new pushrods if your deck height changes.

 

Dont forget gaskets

 

i got push rods when i did my cam

 

should i get head stud instead of bolts

 

DOH can't believe I forgot the gaskets!

NEW Stock bolts are fine but studs are nice, especially if you are changing heads more than once. Another benefit is they are a bit easier to torque down properly. They do have disadvantages though, on the F body it can make getting the heads on and off a little tougher due to clearance issues with the cowl/firewall.

 

I'm in the process of swapping my heads right now. Get a can of compressed air or a long straw and air compressor to blow the coolant out of the bolt holes from the bottom. Otherwise trying to soak it all up with towels will take forever.

Also, a pipe to slip over the ratchet when removing/installing the head bolts will make life a lot easier. I have a 4 footer and consider it essential.

 

You will also need a good plastic scraper to remove the old head gasket from the block once the heads are off.

 

You may not need the racetronix. Texas Speed told me that one of their cars, same year, similar setup was running stock fuel pump and injectors. He said it was even a little rich. That was a '00 SS. Can't remember what mods but he said it was close to my '00 WS6 with LS6 heads and MS4 cam and 90/90.

 

will the stock rocker arms and the hardned push rods from tsp wrk with the patriot 5.3 heads

 

what head gasket should i go with, woulf the stock work ok or would i have to order another type

 

I did my heads last month and I used studs with the motor still in the car and it was the easiest part of the install (not really but it was simple!)
it took me 4 hours to clean the bolt holes have fun

 

tttt..