Raceware studs

[Rat407]

Just did a search and read just about all the hits I got on raceware stud kit and still undecided on them.

Just looking for a general consensus that if the cost of the Raceware studs isn't an issue. Is it worth purchasing the kit and using on my 1.6 TD? Does it really help prevent head gasket problems? Oh and I also read that someone used a Fel Pro head gasket that doesn't require additional torqing, any comments on that?  Also is the kit RWE-106 the correct part number for my Hydraulic 12mm bolt head?

Since my oil consumption/super low oil pressure isn't getting any better it is time to pull the head back off and get back into the pistons and such to see what is going on with all the blow by.
Thanks

[vwmike]

I've used ARP head studs on my turbo gas engines for many years and love them. My understanding is that some of the Raceware stuff is just repackaged ARP. The best place to buy ARP stuff is probably from Summitracing.com. Their prices are pretty good and their shipping is quick. My old 1.8 had the non undercut studs which were a *** when removing the head, but I used undercut studs on this recent 2L which have an allen in the top of them so you can unthread them very easily. It makes pulling the head a lot easier. They usually do extend gasket life and are reuseable, unlike the stretch bolts. I beleive the first set of ARP's have been used 4 times and are still on the engine which is sitting in the garage, and the newer set of undercut studs on my car now are on their second turn so they really do pay for themselves over time.

I would definitely consider using them on your diesel. I've long heard this is a cure for most of the common diesel head gasket problems. I've never seen any reference to retourging with the ARP studs. I don't think it will help your oil pressure issues, but I'm sure you knew that  

[janb]

$.02

Since I am so cheap  :oops:  and a toolmaker by trade  :roll:  I would consider using high strength heat treated SocketHeadCapScrew tooling bolts.  They are speced to 188,000psi tensile, while the RW are 190,000.  But the tooling bolts are ~$2.00 each.  There is some pizzazz speculation that the RW have highly polished threads for more consistent torque values, but a few moments on a drill press or lathe using a 'cratex' abrasion would 'tune-up' the tooling bolts, (which have Class 3 threads to start with) and use a good thread lube and clean block with thread tap for install.

This is just my econo solution, and I have not tried it yet.  (I'm running 8 NA's at the moment, only 2 TD's not in need of repair, yet)
The bolts should be available at a local screw jobber, or through Manhattan Supply Company (a great  resource for tooling /machinist / commercial supplies) http://www1.mscdirect.com/cgi/nnsrhm

I would consider using a 1.9TD STEEL head gasket as well (it should be ok with a Hyd 1.6, but need verification)

You should use a Molded rubber Valve Cover Gasket (need stud kit too, or use set screws with loc-tite, or CAREFULLY remove metal bushings at each hole in Gasket)
You might want to check prices here, as I know they are 1/3 the price of most on Stretch Bolts, heat sheilds, inj nozzles...    Halsey Import Parts 1-800-792-0081 (Portland Or, but same day shipping)

[fspGTD]

Raceware studs are good quality, reusable, high tensile strength deals.  I own a set which I had installed in my autocrosser Rabbit 1.6lTD, but I took them out once I learned that they are not unquestionably legal for my racing class.

They are good insurance against head gasket leaks, which really only seem to be a problem in the event of an overheat with these motors.  Possibly really high boost pressures could also make racewares good insurance against possible head gasket leaks.

With racewares, in the event of an overheat, there may be less chance that the head warps, as they can do a better job of holding it down to the block.  So you can think of them as a little insurance for your motor.  They are also re-usable, unlike the stock "stretch" bolts.

[srivett]

Will they limit the amount of oil that leaks externally around the head gasket?  I don't think it should be necessary for an oil change AND power wash at the same time.

Cheers, Steve

[Peter]

I think the mention of a good headgasket is very important, especially since the org. manu. is producing the gaskets out of brazil etc. with poorer material for compression(sealing capabilities)..try useing....www.corteco-usa.com/...state of the art German facillities right here in the US