03 discovery resurrection by Cannibal V8

[ERover82]

"3. Do the head studs only go in hand tight?
The studs should be installed finger tight. Then, when applying torque to the nut, the stud will stretch only on the vertical axis. An undercut shorter stud will have a rate similar to a longer, standard shank stud. This provides a more even clamping force on the head. Because the head gasket will compress upon initial torquing, make sure studs (or bolts) are re-torqued after the engine has been run."

-ARP site

 

[robertf]

well I'll be damned

I'm still not switching. Removing the AC compressor bracket to get to that damn metal heater hose just to pull the valve cover and check torque isn't worth saving 80 bucks every time the truck needs head gaskets.

 

[ERover82]

Plus you have to pull the plenum off and everything connected to it to get the driver side cover off. I agree it's a pain in the ass.