Just starting to re-assemble my 292. I purchased a complete Set of new Gr 8 Head Bolts with hardened Washers to go under Head. of the Bolts. I read somewhere that when using better Head Bolts the torque can be increased to 100 FT Lbs. What would the 3 steps be to Torque them to 100. 50 75 100? Is it a good Idea to increase Torque from original Specs? This will be My last Engine I ever build. Everything I picked up on this Site over the last 15 Years is being put to practice. Second Y-Block I have done.Thanks!

  

No, if the bolts are still 7/16".  75# is pushing it IMO, and the reason I say that is because the block face is not real thick if it has been decked, and it will deflect if more torque is used.  I have had water issues on three Ys after torquing to 80+lb/ft with 7/16" ARP studs.  The 7/16" bolts are still rated at 70-75#.  Joe-JDC

JDC

OK Thank You!

  

Prior to torquing the head bolts, I will install them without the washers and check that the bolts are not bottoming out.  As long as the heads of the bolts without their washers contact the cylinder head when initially screwed in or at least an amount that’s less than the thickness of the washer, there should be no problem with the bolts bottoming out before proper head gasket compression is achieved.  If the bolts are too long, then the bolts can be appropriately shortened on a grinder and then deburred on a wire wheel to get them to a point where they will tighten without bottoming out.

Reinforcing what Joe says, I torque the short grade eight 7/16” bolts to 70 lb/ft and the long bolts to 75 lb/ft.  The increments I use are 30, 50, 70, & 75 (long bolts only).  I also use bolt lube on the threads and on the underside of the head bolt or top of the washer.  I do not use any lube on the bottom side of the washer.  It’s important that the washer be stationary while the bolt is being tightened.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

I was hoping you would respond Ted. Thank You. The Bolts are correct Length when checked against original Bolts. Purchased from Headbolts.com. Thanks for correct Information. Especially about no Lube on underside of Washers. What is the Head Bolt Lube u suggest?

  

Joe, I have ARP studs but haven't installed them. The heads have been milled .013 (non-posted ECZ-G) and the block will be zero-decked. Do you recommend 70# for the studs? Thanks.

Because I use a large number of ARP bolts and most of the sets I order include the lube, I use the ARP bolt lube.  Using engine oil on the threads does make a difference; the same torque but less clamp load on the gasket.  Whatever you do, be consistent.
  

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)