I have been pondering getting new head bolts for some time. ARP has the short ones, $2.81ea, and can make the long ones for about $800-$1200 !!!! They probably have off the shelf studs available but they will not allow me to R&R the heads in the engine bay.
We can get grade 8 bolts that will work for about $75 a complete set. These are just off the shelf standard grade 8 bolts. They are rated at about 150,000 to 155,000psi tensile strength and are basically the same as the stock bolts but are shaped a tad different in that the stock bolts are necked down in the center area. I don't know if that would even matter.
Upon consulting with my machinist and his co-worker they have said the real weak point is going to be the threads in the block. The constant removal and
re-torque will stress the internal threads more. They don't like the idea of using after market generic bolts as they have doubts to the quality.So the outcome of this search is that I will re-use what I have been using and be sure everything is clean and properly prepared.
I also inquired about the steel head gaskets. On this subject he said they should be fine. He says newer steel gaskets come pre-coated whereas the old originals were bare. Mopar made a head gasket spray that was used on them he said. He thinks it may still be available. I'll see if I can find some of that otherwise I will be coating them with Copper Coat spray.
So I finally have a definite direction to go for re-assembly.
Rich Kinsley '64 Dodge Polara 4dr 324 poly w/goodies
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