Replacing head bolts with ARP studs on M30 one at a time?

[billleget]

Is it possible to replace the head bolts on an M30('88 735i) with ARP head studs one at a time? Don't want to remove the head and will limit boost to 12 psi.

[Matt330LS]

I'm fairly certain the answer is no, you need to pull the head to install even one. You'll need to double check that though. On the other hand, why would you want to do that? Just pull the head, install the studs and new HG, then reassemble.

[marc79euro635]

Is it possible to replace the head bolts on an M30('88 735i) with ARP head studs one at a time? Don't want to remove the head and will limit boost to 12 psi.

Try it, why not? draindown coolant first. good luck! let us know how it goes.

[20comer]

I think that will be fine. Make sure you clean the holes of any debries.

[spyderg0d]

I wouldn't. From my understanding The stock stretch bolts have a higher clamp force than the arp head studs do on most bmw engines. The issue isn't really maintaining head placement as much as it is squeezing less on the already compressed gasket with arp studs. The arp studs are "better" because they don't stretch and can withstand higher forces, but, they aren't initially torqued as hard as the yield is on the stretch bolts.

[M3 Muscle]

If your current gasket will hold the boost, go for it. That is a common practice in the diesel world. I did it to my 6.7 Cummins 110,000+ miles ago and haven't had an issue.

[digger]

I wouldn't. From my understanding The stock stretch bolts have a higher clamp force than the arp head studs do on most bmw engines. The issue isn't really maintaining head placement as much as it is squeezing less on the already compressed gasket with arp studs. The arp studs are "better" because they don't stretch and can withstand higher forces, but, they aren't initially torqued as hard as the yield is on the stretch bolts.

the normal reason to fit ARP is higher preload for the gasket sealing otherwise its not really a upgrade. the OE are TTY but they are 10.9 grade

[Robocop]

idk where you are but if you haven't done it already please return the ARP and use that money on something<br>useful for your setup. stock bolts won't even be tickled at 12psi.

[johnnylud3]

Not condoning this method, but I did it this way out of laziness and because it already had a fresh gasket. No issues to report.

[PowerKraut]

Did that on an my M50 Turbo as well.