Just wondering how hard it is gonna be to install heads with ARP head studs in the truck. It looks like the AC dryer is going to be right in the way on the passenger side. Has anyone done this or have studs?

 

I have studs but installed them while the motor was out. I am sure it could be done in the truck but, I am also sure it would be a pain in the ***. I wouldn't worry about the AC dryer but the back bolts on either head.
Why do you need studs? Stock bolts held my old motor together.

 

I'm running the ARP head studs but, I installed them with my engine out of my truck. I've done a couple head swaps and am pretty sure you can make it work. You'll just have to have the studs partially in the heads as you set the heads down on the block.

So what are you doing that makes you want to stud your heads?

 

I'm doing head studs because I believe they are the easiest and best to use. It will be easier to line everything up, no worries about stripping the threads, and they are reusable if I need to change heads again. Also, they can't hurt if I ever slap on a wet kit either.

BTW, what kind of times does that 4x4 run? That sounds like an insane combo.

 

I started this 4x4 project back in April and just finished with tuning early this week. What took the longest was getting the heads and tuning done. And on top of that, I ran into several other problems along the way. So, as you can see, I completely missed out on race season this past year. I can tell you this much though, I'm having huge traction problems even with the 4x4 engaged

 

it is easy and there is plenty of room. i dont know what this air thing you are talking about is. if you have ever pulled the heads on a f-bod with studs than this will be like a cake walk.

 

Curious why your not using ARP's LS1 -LQ4 head bolt kit instead of studs,. They are just as strong. come with hardend washers and are reusable without the fuss of studs.
Please guys don't get your self in trouble re-using the stock torque to yield bolts, they won't come back up to spec. and you can easily snap them off!