ARP Cylinder Head Studs

George Snyder · #1 (**permalink**) 01-14-2003, 07:55 PM

I need to change the Head Gaskets on my 5.0 Crate Engine. It has M-6049-X303 GT40X Heads. I am new to Ford Engines and need some advise please. My questions are?

1. Does ARP make studs for these Heads?
2. Best Head Gaskets?
3. Best Intake Gaskets?
4. Best Exhaust Manifold Gaskets?

Thanks,
George

Mr.Fixit · #2 (**permalink**) 01-15-2003, 08:20 AM

ARP makes whatever fastener you need, I bet the head studs you want are an off the shelf part.
Stick with FEL-PRO for all your gasket needs, they are top notch

agro1 · #3 (**permalink**) 01-17-2003, 10:25 AM

I second the Fel-Pro's...I had crappy OEM style replacement head gaskets that came from the engine builder - DER - blew a gasket the first time I pushed it...Replaced with Fel-Pro gaskets that have a stainless steel O ring around each cylinder, the stainless rings take a nice "bite" into aluminum heads creating a great compression seal...No problems since...

George Snyder · #4 (**permalink**) 01-17-2003, 09:17 PM

Thanks Guys,

I will go with all Felpro for me. I am not too sure if they make the studs for my 5.0, as I couldn't find a listing at their site. The Speed Shop I use is also a Distributor for Ford Motor Sport Engines, so I am sure they will know.

agro1,

I had sorta a similar problem. Just started to run my 5.0 past 3k and the head gasket blew. Brand new Ford Crate Engine.

kountzecobra · #5 (**permalink**) 01-17-2003, 09:48 PM

Instead of head studs, you might think about ARP head bolts. Sometimes you may have space problems if you ever have to remove a head with the engine in the car. ARP 12-point bolts are the same quality as their studs. Also use a smaller socket which can be easier to re-torque bolts without removing rocker arms. Also pick up some of their thread lube-wonderful stuff! Website has catalog. www.arp-bolts.com

HighPlainsDrifter · #6 (**permalink**) 01-20-2003, 10:02 AM

George,
When you put the head gaskets on there is a 'front' stamped into the gasket, it has to go to the front of the engine or the cooling holes will be out and overhead the engine. Also the short lower header bolts need thread sealer on them, they are in a water passage.
Good Luck,
Perry.

George Snyder · #7 (**permalink**) 01-20-2003, 07:38 PM

Guys,
I know this is a stupid question, but I feel compelled to ask. Is there anyway that a head bolt that extends into the water jacket be leaking coolant into the cylinder? Is it possiable to solve this problem by resealing the bolt? The head gasket was leaking coolant, and after retorqueing the bolts, now is only leaking a small amount into # 3 cylinder. You can see it bubbling out the header bolt.
Thanks,

HighPlainsDrifter · #8 (**permalink**) 01-20-2003, 08:07 PM

George;
I think you have aluminum heads so I wouldn't do that, it's possible to warp the head. I would take them off and clean everything and install new graphite head gaskets and retorque the head bolts in 3 steps.The graphite gaskets lets the aluminum heads move as aluminum expands at a different rate than the iron block.
Perry.

Satanpez · #9 (**permalink**) 01-20-2003, 09:14 PM

I believe 4 bolts on each head on a 5.0 goes into the water passages, so yes, if it's leaking it can go into the piston.

There should be some sort of sealant that keeps water from leaking.

-steve in nj-

auto10x · #10 (**permalink**) 01-21-2003, 06:24 AM

Coat the ends of the offending head bolts with thread sealer before installation. Small block Chevys are the same. Always seal protruding head bolts.
auto10x