The head bolts are the main fasteners to hold the engine block’s piston head in place. They are made usually from hardened and can be torqued between 70 and 100 ft. lbs. depending on the engine.
Each make and type has a different number of head bolts, but they are generally between eight to twelve bolts per Head. This is due to each manufacturer having its own set of specifications for different applications.
The type of engine you use and how much power it produces will impact the head bolt torque specification. High-performance engines such as turbocharged, supercharged, or turbocharged will require more torque than low-performance engines.
How Do Head Studs Be Torqued?
There are three main types of motor industry fasteners. The first is the nut and bolt that attaches the head of the cylinder to the block. The second is called a stud & nut and is used to attach transmission elements such as the flywheel, flex plate, or other components. The third type is a bolt and stud, which can be used to attach various engine components, such as the flywheel or flex plate, water pump pulleys, oil pans, and valve covers.
To determine the right torque setting for a screw and stud, refer to your vehicle’s service manual. For some vehicles, special tools are needed to tighten fasteners. This is to protect internal components from damage due to over-tightening.
How Do Head Studs Be Torqued?
First, make sure that the tool is correct. It’s not worth breaking one of these heads.
If you use a torque tool, there is a chart that will tell you how to use the torque. This chart is based on the diameter of your studs as well as their length. This chart is here:
Head studs usually have a torque of 500-700 ft. lb. This value is usually determined by the manufacturer. If you do the work yourself, check your engine manual.
The process for turning head bolts is different from other fasteners. It is not recommended to use a torque wrench as it can damage the threads inside the block. Instead, you’ll need a torque stick or torque bar. This is essentially a long, flat metal bar with markings telling you how to apply force to each bolt.
If you’re using the torque stick, hold it in place with one hand and turn your other hand on the nut. When the head bolt starts to tighten, turn it about 2/3 of the way. Keep pressing down on the stick/bar until the bolt stops moving inward. This will ensure both halves of your block have their threads fully engaged and won’t split when you’re done tightening them.
Are Head Nuts Better Than Head Bolts For Head Studs?
Head bolts are more reliable than custom head studs. They are stronger than head bolts and have more torque potential, so they can last longer and be more secure.
Head studs have a lower likelihood of pulling out than head bolts. Therefore, some companies specify studs as head gaskets for high-performance engines.
The downside of using studs to attach to cylinder heads and blocks is the drilling required. This means that head gaskets must have at least one layer made of steel and/or a spacer made from aluminum.
Another problem is that you will need special tools to install them inside the engine block. These tools may not be included in your kit.