ARP Head Studs: worthwhile for a forged build?
 

One of the many options I'm thinking about for my forged 2.0 CDB build is whether it's worth going for ARP head studs instead of just reusing the old head bolts again. I'll be running Wiseco pistons, Eagle rods, standard crank, STi3/4 heads with Cometic 1.3mm gaskets all on an early 2.0 CDB. Turbo for the time being will be a TD05-16G which will most likely end up mapped for 1.4 bar or thereabouts, but plans may be afoot later on to go for a bigger turbo and perhaps a gearbox to suit.

At what stage does a head stud conversion become necessary, in terms of power output/boost level? Or to put it another way, how far can you push a set of standard head bolts, especially if being reused? I have heard they can be reused without a problem, and I'm a big fan of saving money where I can to spend it on other parts!

they can be re-used but personally we always fit ARP on anything getting a larger turbo/forged internals..............not worth not doing IMO

alyn

Too cheap not to fit IMO.

OK that's two votes in favour so far. Any experience of failures of standard head bolts and at what level?

It's many bad experiences out there. Just do it if you want to do good job!

Still on budget for a budget built Silent??? :)

LOL it's a slippery slope that's for sure.

For what they cost i would use ARPs if i were you cos it will cost you alot more if you push more boost, extra strength at the end of the day is always a good thing :thumb: