don't really care for math, numbers, stats. not trying to revive the annual debate. I do not care enough either way.
I went with the provided stretch bolts last time, but have none provided this time. I get to choose, great. so can I poll a choice and I will be able to blame someone else if I only get 35k out of my gaskets? really, I gotta get something so thanks for the help. even if you have no opinion, pretend it's your wife asking "which shoes look better?" sty can be the black high heels and arp are the black high heels, that look the same but with the tiny strap thing.

 

I think it is a no brainer to go ARP. These things fail and crack due to the thin walls and the stresss the stretch bolts put on them. When it comes time for me, I'm going ARP.

Make sure you get the newly designed ones, the ones for the 4.0 and 4.6 and not the Buick. Part number is 157-4301.

Install instructions can be found here:
http://arpinstructions.com/instructions/157-4301.pdf

They are not cheap but knowing you it is something you will do again.

 

Nice post. Due for an HG job and the task is beyond my skill level, so my trusted landy mechanic will tackle this job for me come summer. Spoke with Disco Mike who swears by the ARP. Frankly, can't say I know enough to know the difference between stretch or arp. Disco Mike mentioned that all the hot rods and dragsters use ARP, so given the level of expectation these types of drivers demand of their engine, not to mention the stress endured by these engine, ARP is the way to go.

 

From all the keyboarding i have done, isn't the back stud had to do or hard for the heads to clear?

Dusty, are you taking pictures along the way on the take down and rebuild?

 

I think you put the heads on before the last studs, and put those in after.
I was trying to take a few pictures when I took it apart.

 

You just take a 5lb sledge and beat the firewall to get the clearance you need. Or pull the motor. Easier that way. And for Dusty it would only add an extra 30 minutes to the job.

 

yes, dusty that is correct install the head on the dowel pins, then insert the studs, they get hand tighten with an Allen wrench, then the washer, nut and torque.

 

Do I think STY bolts will work, YES!
Do I think ARP studs will work, YES!

Do I think arp is better, probably. Are they really necessary, probably not.

So do I think that the fastener has the most direct link to a coolant leak, no probably not in this case as there is other design flaws that seem to be a bigger concern to me.

Is it worth the extra cost, not for me, this time.

Depends on your level of getting into it, do I think it could be an upgrade, sure, but so are lots of things I do not want to pay for.

 

I'm using ARP studs on my rebuild. I've always used them on all the top end rebuilds I've done for two reasons:
1) better torque equality
2)reusable
Maybe a 3rd) no degree TTY tightening

 

High heels make you look fat.