The stock 5.3L block I have seen handle a 200 shot of nitrous without a hiccup, the only thing that started acting up was the 4L60E tranny. I'd start with a 150 shot, and progressively move up the nozzles until you've hit an ET you're happy with. (nitrous will not put you into the 9's just FYI ) After you're happy with a desired level (or can no longer put that power to the ground) then step up to forced induction or a larger nitrous hit but as a 2 or 3 stage progressive system so it's not all at once.

The old saying here still holds true. Speed costs money, how fast do you want to go?

If one experiences detonation, the fastening system (stud or bolt) and head gasket should be the last things on the list to worry about. One should sort out the more important details; like why is the engine detonating?

 

Started a new thread with pics.
https://www.performancetrucks.net/fo...d.php?t=415161