MC 165 ARP head studs

[Sangster21]

I am still trying to resolve my issue with coolant loss and steamy blowby. Anyway I have installed the pressure tested and machined cylinder head with a new head gasket and I am replacing the 40 year old cylinder head head bolts with ARP studs. Couple of issues, first off you must be careful how far you thread the studs into the block on the front port side of the engine, if they are installed too deeply you will have an interference issue with impellor on water pump...... ask me how I know. Secondly, with the hardened washers and the nuts, there is a clearance issue to the cast valve cover. The nuts prevent the valve cover from sitting down properly. Grrrrr. I got too tired to deal with that issue tonight, and will have to look at it in am. I do not want to get rid of the hardened washers,as they are there for a reason. It looks like I can mill or spot face a tiny bit of the valve cover to give necessary clearance, but would really hate to pooch my valve cover. I really am not good with any oil leaks. Any one experienced such an issue and can provide any advice? Would be mucho appreciated.
Regards,
Alan

 

[Bt Doctur]

That's why the factory used bolts. they work just fine .properly installed with bolts the head dose not leak. when there overheated is when they leak.
if studs were the better option the factory would have used them.

 

[Bondo]

That's why the factory used bolts. they work just fine .properly installed with bolts the head dose not leak. when there overheated is when they leak.
if studs were the better option the factory would have used them.

Ayuh,.... Ditto,... I'd reuse the original head bolts, or get a new set from Chevy,....

 

[Fishermark]

The straight six is not exactly a high compression performance monster... so I would agree with the above. Studs are overkill for what you need.