should i do head studs?

[TurnerN]

So currently my truck is stock. On order right now is an arctic air twin setup, f1's, gdp fuel system with big line and 2 micron filter, andeventually my smarty when it comes out. have no clue on a clutch (contemplating dual disc or single). im going for the 600 hp mark. i was wondering about boost pressure, relentless says the stock headgasket is good to about 60 psi, while ats recommends head studs at 45-50 psi. im guessing i will be around 55 psi qwith my twin setup, if not more. so my question to you guys is should i, or should i not. if i do, do i have to bottom tap the holes? does the whole cylinder head have to come off? just give me the basic run down of the install. thanks

 

[AFarmer]

Studs will definitely be a little extra insurance for your head gasket.

 

[zstroken]

Put the studs in. Then you can probably hold 55 PSI without oringing the head. One thing I feel is that is you blow the head gasket you should probably resurface the head, which is kind of the opposite of what we need when going to hi boost set ups. We would actually like to decompress if we can. Not add compression. SO stud it now and it will probably hold.

 

[TurnerN]

anything to look out for when installing them?

 

[RMalone]

Keep in mind that the 3rd gens can handle more boost than the 24v and 12v heads. I do agree that studs are a good insurance policy if I end up doing twins I will probably stud the head myself. The 45-50 from the sps66 has caused no problems for me... yet.

 

[OT-OF-HERE!!]

Head studs yes/no

Keep in mind that the small exh housing on your oem turbo is the issue in the Artic Air twins setup which makes it a must to have the studs.