To those that have installed head studs with engine in the vehicle
 

Are there any specific studs that need to be installed after the cylinder head is placed on the block in order to be able to get the head on? Just looking to save some time. Thanks.

I was wondering the same thing. I was just going to go with ARP head bolts because I didn't know you could install studs after the head is on... I didnt think I would have the clearance to get the heads over the studs under the firewall.

I installed the studs on my 5.3 when it was in the truck. No probelms at all. I installed all the studs, and the heads fit over them nicely.

Did one recently its was and pre 04 block with the longer studs. I first laid the head on then threaded the studs in. the back 2 by the fire wall were a pain. I had to unbolt the trans from the crossmember and jack it up to bring the engine away from the fire wall. Other than that it wasn't that big a deal. Now that I know that trick I would do it again for the added safety

Nice, that's good to hear.

How do I know when the LQ9 in my truck was made? I have an 05, but not all of the head bolts were the same length... sounds like a pre 04?

There's a code on the front left of the block at the deck surface will tell you when it was cast

Oh ok thanks.

I have had my heads off before and i know i have different length head bolts, but it seems to go against what most people say on here... that's the only reason I ask. Just a little confused.

Jack the trans up till it touches the tunnel. I put a few of the front studs in and drop the gasket and head on, then put in the rest of the studs in the back. Easiest way I've found with the engine in the truck. Most of the time, the shortblock is on the stand.

If you have an 05 truck with the original engine you have the same length bolts.

The earlier ones had two different lengths on the big bolts

Notice the big bolts are all the same length??? These are mid 04-Up

http://www.gmperformancemotor.com/Me...2/17800568.jpg

These are the early ones were the two outer bolts are shorter then the rest.
See the 2 that are mid length and threaded all the way up compared to the longer ones??? These are 99-03

http://www.gmperformancemotor.com/Me...2/12498545.jpg