diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

has any body had problems with the GM Performance parts head bolts not being able to hold any torque. I was just trying to torque them down at 65 ft/lbs and they were stretching. I even used one of the flexing wrenches to watch it. and it wasn't making it to 60. before any body asks, I did step it up in incriments. I've used them before on my truck engine, and that was at 80 ft/lbs. this is about my millionth issue with this project.

speed_demon24

iTrader: (6)

Were they new bolts?

Paul Bell

iTrader: (9)

Are you saying you've used these bolts before and they were torqued to 80 foot pounds and you're trying to use them again?

If yes, they were junk when they were torqued beyond 70 foot pounds.

The max on a stock bolt is 70 foot pounds. They will stretch at not much more.

You shoulda went with the insurance of ARP head (and main cap) bolts.
http://www.348-409.com/torquesm.html

GIZMO

iTrader: (8)

The GMPP bolts can be tourqued one time only. After that they are garbage.

Mystery Bird

iTrader: (7)

I've had brand new ones break before I hit 65 ft lbs. a year ago on a project. They did do a warranty claim...for one bolt!!! Junk!!! I've switched to ARP and never looked back.

diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

It was definately brand new bolts, especially since I'm hoping to make some serious power. When I said I used them before, I meant that I used the same product before. GM is going to owe me some head gaskets, I'm not paying for those again. I'm definately going to arp after this. They better not pull a one bolt BS.

Paul Bell

iTrader: (9)

I doubt if GM is gonna return your money for head bolts let alone replace the head gaskets for free.

I guess this was issue one million one, eh? Get ARP bolts, new gaskets and don't look back.

Gizmo, good (SBC) head bolts should be able to be re-used. They are not TTY like in the LS series.

Mystery Bird

iTrader: (7)

This is true, the place I purchased them refunded my money for the one bolt.

diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

I'm hoping because I'm using cometic gaskets. That'll add another 270 to my project bill with the bolts, which I can't spare right now.

Paul Bell

iTrader: (9)

Cometic gaskets can be re-used.

diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

That is a huge relief. I thought once all headgaskets were torqued that was it. I found a set of arp headstuds brand new in the box on ebay for $90. I'll just move on and continue then.

TheHeadFL

Is the engine in the car? Watch out with the studs... I've heard its near impossible to get the heads on in the car.

Paul Bell

iTrader: (9)

It's easy. The studs go in after the head is laid on the block. They have a internal hex. Spin them in with an Allen drive socket then washers & nuts. Torque. Beer.

diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

beer is good. thank you for all the advise every body

GIZMO

iTrader: (8)

I am pretty sure that he is talking about these. If not, then I stand corrected.

96capricemgr

iTrader: (1)

Best we can tell LT1s came with both standard and TTY bolts over the years. Would be pretty typical for GMPP to supersede a PN and substitute the later ones when folks order for an older application.

I would not go putting studs in a block bored with bolts.

sweetbmxrider

iTrader: (13)

Head studs are prone to coolant leaks, watch out.

diablizzard

iTrader: (2)

wouldn't I just put thread sealer on them?

I don't understand what the differance would be, except how they get threaded on.

shbox

That's what most people try to do, but end up with leaks for some reason. Better search for what people say works for sealer. IMHO, use studs only if it is something you must do for build reasons.

96capricemgr

iTrader: (1)

The distortion to the block once torqued is different with studs vs. bolts. Best to stick with whatever fastener type and torque spec was used during machining.