Perhaps a dumb question, but is it 100% necessary to remove the studs for machining a Flathead? Assuming the decks are flat.
Why wouldn't you? If you are machining everything wouldn't you go back with new studs? I've never built a flathead but everything I've read tells me I would want to replace the studs for fear of twisting one off.
You stand a better chance of twisting them off when removing them. I have a fixture that can be used to bore a flathead with the studs still in place.
Better to break them now while taking them out, than break them when torquing down on reassemble, on a fresh rebuild..
Most shops will not work on it with the studs in. I heat the studs red hot as close to the block surface as I dare. Maybe give them a few wacks while I'm at it. Let them cool and use a cam lock tool to turn them out Grab the stud as close to the deck as possible. Lot of guys say use wax or penetrating oil on the hot stud. I tried it. Didn't change anything for me. But it didn't hurt. So if it makes you feel better, go for it.
I don't think you'll break many studs torqueing them to 45 ft. lbs. And I'm with Rich on getting them out. No substitute for heat. I use a torque wrench when removing them. If they won't move with 70 lbs, I reheat.
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