Has anyone here used ARP head bolts in a Ford flathead 6? I had a complete new head bolt kit from VanPelt Sales, and when bolting down the head the other week, one of the head bolts snapped in the block coming up to full torque. And now that we've cleaned up that mess, most of those new bolts are now stretched to the point I wouldn't trust using them again. I'd like to use ARP next time but they don't do a "kit" for the Ford Flathhead 6, but getting them individually my supplier can only give me a choice of 2.5" long or 2.75" long measuring under the head of the bolt. The stock length bolts are 2.62". Just wondering if the 2.75" will be too long and what other people have used? Thanks
Use the 2.75" ARPs and a hardened head bolt washer under each one.I have just run into the same problem with a flathead six Plymouth and that worked fine for me.
You should call ARP and ask them if they have some closer to what you want. I find that better than some one trying to read a catalog.
Considered using studs and nuts? That's what my '48 has from the factory for the head. I have read early production engines used studs. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
Forget old factory specs. 45-50 ft-lbs with clean lubed threads is plenty enough for washered 7/16 studs or bolts. Re-torque often till stabilized. Jack E/NJ
I have heard that an ARP Chev small block bolt kit will work on a flathead Plymouth or Dodge but you have to buy 2 kits to get all the sizes you need. Don't know if it is true but might be worth looking into, it might be an easy and cheap way to get what you need.
Not true Rusty. The 4 intermediate length head bolts are about 1-2 threads longer than a stock 218 Plymouth head bolt. The others are WAY too long or WAY too short.