arp head studs can they be installed with engine in truck before you put the heads on or do you got to put the heads on b4 studding it ?

well for once i used the search button and it came up with mixed answers on yes it can be done and no it cant be done, so what is it? or does it depend on what heads you got or something? im just wondering cause i just ordered some studs and going to be doing this soon and would like to get the research out of the way. also what are you guys torquing them too? is there a certain pattern you got to use when torquing them ? i got the allen key ones cause i was told i would have more room to work within the crampt area in the back .
please give me some real life experience answers not "what i heard was" lol
thanks as always guys...

 

Tightening pattern is the same as the gm bolts, and arp list the torque for each pass.

 

You'll need to put the studs in with the heads on. The ones at the back of the head will be difficult...may have to unbolt the trans mount and jack it up to get clearance for it.

 

There is enough room when putting the heads on with the studs already installed. I've done it twice now. If you're worried, install all studs but the rear ones, put the gasket and head on, then put in the remaining studs.

Use the GM torque sequence, and the specs should have come in the box. I used 80 ft-lbs on the big studs, and 25 I believe on the small studs.

 

I put my heads on after I had the studs installed and never had a problem. You could always put the 4 corners in and test fit it first.

 

I just posted a thread on this exact topic about 2 weeks ago. Search must be failing again.

FOR ME, the heads slipped on easily with all studs in place. I didn't have to manipulate anything.

The torque sequence is the same as the GM head bolts, except the ARP's are done in 3 passes (I did mine 30 lb/ft, then 50, then finally 80). 15, 20, and 25 on the small studs.

 

Cool so it seems they will fit with stud mounted hopefully so I guess I'll try that and see if it works. Thanks for the help full info guys.

 

Update?