INTERNAL ENGINE MODIFICATIONS Valvetrain |Heads | Strokers | Design | Assembly

Head studs or bolts on a 5.3?

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Old Jun 19, 2011 | 09:37 PM
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Default Head studs or bolts on a 5.3?

The truck has a stock L59 5.3 in it. It has a "boost" cam in it. Im purchasing a turbo kit from KBracing and the turbo is goin to be a BW S468 T6 with a 1.10 A/R and a 83mm turbine wheel. It'll see about 10-12lbs of boost.

I want to replace the TTY head bolts with either ARP head bolts or ARP head studs. It's a 2006 so I know I need the bolts that are all the same length as with the 2004+ blocks. With what the 5.3 is going to see do i absolutely need studs or can I use bolts? I understand the properties of both amd their clamping capabilities. The studs also cost an extra $200 bucks.

I'm replacing the head gaskets with GM 5.3 MLS gaskets. Are those the best gaskets for boost for a 5.3?

Thanks guys.
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Old Jun 19, 2011 | 10:13 PM
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I would go with the arp head bolts if it were me. Most guys say stock TTY bolts are good to 10 lbs.
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Old Jun 19, 2011 | 10:16 PM
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I've read that GM LS9 gaskets are damn good for boost. I'll be running a set on my turbo 5.3.
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Old Jun 19, 2011 | 11:02 PM
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Even with the different bore size would the LS9 gaskets be okay since they are meant for over a 4" bore of the 6.2L and of course the 5.3 is 3.78"
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Old Jun 20, 2011 | 07:03 AM
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Foose04 is running the LS9 gaskets on his 4.8, and everyone know he's haulin ***!
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Old Jun 20, 2011 | 11:27 AM
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You should be good to go with the ARP bolts and GM MLS gaskets (doesn't the 06 5.3 come with MLS gaskets from the factory?)
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Old Jun 20, 2011 | 01:50 PM
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Yes they did. Just wondering if the L92 or LS9 gaskets would be better. I know a lot of engine builders recommend studs for FI.
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Old Jun 20, 2011 | 07:25 PM
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I am running the MLS gaskets and ARP bolts on 11 psi....
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Old Jun 21, 2011 | 05:58 PM
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The LS9 gaskets are 7 layer, while the others are 4 or 5...i think. I just know that the LS9's have more layers and are mucho better for boost.
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Old Jul 6, 2011 | 06:20 AM
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I would just do it once and run head studs then u know ur going to be good I would do a set of rod bolts if u don't have a set
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