Doing a build with an FP RED but sure if I should use OEM head bolt guy is on a budget.

 

350-400tq.head bolts around $100 worth to invest.

 

Leave stock ones in there unless you take the head off for another reason.

 

Bottom end will break before head bolts unless the tune is WAY off.

 

Thanks I value johns input a lot so I guess ill go with the oem head bolt since the head has never been taken off and just go easy on the torque.

 

Just keep the boost lower.

 

I did 575/400 pretty easy on 92, my brother did 530/430 on his. Not afraid of them as far as their tensile strength. As you pointed out if the headbolts havent been loosened and then if the tune is right it will be fine.

 

I wouldn't put a hp or tq limit on the headstuds, I just know many tuners don't want to go over 24psi without having headstuds because they say that you have a possibility of lifting the head and it messes up the seal of the headgasket then you have to replace it...

 

ran 38psi on stock studs and E85

 

If you search, pretty much you'll see this same post from John in numerous places

 

just because you have done it does not make it safe... there are people running 500tq on stock bottom end but for how long...

 

Eitherway no plans of running 500 torque...

460-480 whp and were happy

Torque 400-425 range

 

In my opinion, the major benefit of head studs on a moderate build is that they have a longer lifespan than the OEM headbolts. The OEM headbolts stretch when you torque them and once they stretch past the service limit you have to replace them.

Headstuds are easier to setup too. You just final torque them to 85 or whatever value vs. the 90 degree turn, 90 degree turn stipulated for OEM bolts.