i've used both the stretch bolts and the arp studs, on two different trucks. didn't care for the bolts at all. they're annoying as hell to try and get to the correct rotation, especially the ones closest to the firewall. plus, if you make a mistake or need to redo anything, you can't re-use them.

 

#1: Even small repair shops can typically pressure test your block if you are concerned about a crack.

#2: something caused your headgaskets to fail. You want to fix that cause so that it doesn't negate all of your work and blow your new headgaskets. Typically an overheat condition caused minor warping, so decking the heads will often suffice to fix the cause, but keep in mind that's always just a blind guess. It would be nice to know the root cause prior to starting your new headgasket job, if possible.

#3: Your machine shop will see when they are decking your heads if there was extreme warping. A large enough wave in your head can form a path for coolant to flow erroneously without the headgasket looking blown. You need to know if that's the case here, I'd think.

#4: You can pin your sleeves and/or go to an all-metal Cometic headgasket if you don't want to have to worry about slipping sleeves later.