wotagr8bigchief

iTrader: (1)

I have made a bit of a schoolboy error fitting my new heads, I used o/e Subaru STI metal gaskets and ARP bolts. Problem is I didn't read the ARP instructions properly, on the left hand bank I followed the correct order but instead of torquing in stages I went directly to 90nm. Upon re-reading the instructions I realised the torquing should of been done in stages, 30-60-90nm. I torqued up the right hand bank in this manner.
Now having looked at various guides including this one: https://www.scoobynet.com/general-te...-settings.html
It appears the ARP instructions are incorrect anyway and I should of backed off the nuts 90 degrees twice.
Please can someone advise as to which technique I should of used and wether or not I should A. Leave as is and keep a close eye on my temperature guage. B. Losen and re-torque bolts according to best technique. C. Replace one or both head gaskets and torque in recommended technique.
Obviously I would rather not bin a brand new set of metal head gaskets if possible, any advice would be appreciated. Cheers

jimmy gee

The head gaskets will. Be ok mate ive used the metal gaskets on my head twice with no problem, ive been told you can yous the gasket 3 times

wotagr8bigchief

iTrader: (1)

Thats good news fella thanks, what thickness gaskets are you using and which method to torque?

merlin24

iTrader: (1)

Back them off and start again as the gaskets will be fine.
Use the ARP lube and follow their instructions to pull the heads down in 3 stages.
Oh and please read the instructions again as it's ft-lbs you should be using and not Nm as you stated above.

Mick

jazzyjembreaze

iTrader: (11)

TC Bc TL BR BL TR
22ft pounds
51
Loosen in reverse
Re torque

wotagr8bigchief

iTrader: (1)

Thanks Mick, just to clarify you are saying use the ARP instructions and not the other way backing off 45 degress half way through etc...?
Did use foot pounds now you mention it, think the other guide I linked to was in nm. Good news about the gaskets being ok, my wallet is in a state of despair at the moment

merlin24

iTrader: (1)

If using ARP head studs, then follow their fitting instructions.
The only reason you torque to 29+69 Nm initially and then back off 180/180 is to pre-crush the head gaskets before the final tightening sequence.

Hope that clears it up.

Mick

wotagr8bigchief

iTrader: (1)

Cheers for the help guys