Prevent 24V Cummins Head Gasket Blowouts with ARP Head Studs

If you own a 1998.5 to 2024 Dodge Ram with a 5.9L or 6.7L Cummins, you already know these engines are torque monsters. But when you start towing heavy loads, running aggressive tunes, or pushing over 600 horsepower, the factory head bolts become a critical weak point. This is where upgrading to 24V Cummins head studs becomes essential.

Stock Torque-To-Yield (TTY) head bolts are designed to stretch. Under the elevated boost and cylinder pressures of a modified engine, they can stretch permanently. Once this happens, the cylinder head lifts slightly off the block, leading to blown head gaskets, coolant contamination, and expensive, time-consuming repairs.

The definitive solution is upgrading to the ARP Pro Series Cylinder Head Stud Kit.

Why ARP Pro Series Head Studs Outperform Factory Bolts

Unlike factory bolts that permanently deform, ARP studs act like incredibly strong, reusable springs. They provide consistent clamping force that keeps the cylinder head securely sealed against the engine block, no matter the pressure.

Key Highlights of the ARP Pro Series Kit

• Superior Clamping Force: Rated at an incredible 220,000 PSI tensile strength, these studs withstand massive cylinder pressures and heavy boost without flexing.
• Precision Centerless Grounding: This process ensures the studs are perfectly concentric, distributing clamping force evenly across the entire head gasket surface.
• Broached Stud Ends (5mm Hex): Allows for easy, finger-tight installation into the block and simplifies head removal, especially in tight engine bays.
• Complete Hardware Pack: The kit includes 26 ARP2000 studs, hardened parallel-ground washers, premium 12-point chrome moly nuts, and a packet of ARP Ultra-Torque Fastener Assembly Lubricant.

Quick Installation & Torque Tips

Proper installation is key to achieving the full benefit of head studs. Here are a few essential tips for a smooth installation:

1. Chase and Clean the Block Threads: Before installing studs, use a thread chaser (not a cutting tap) to clean all M12x1.75 threads in the block. Blow out any oil or debris with compressed air.
2. Screw Studs In Hand-Tight: Thread the studs into the block until they are hand-tight. Do not use an Allen wrench to apply torque to the stud itself.
3. Use ARP Ultra-Torque Lube: Apply the included assembly lube to the stud threads and under the nut face. This ensures an accurate torque reading and proper fastener stretch.
4. Follow a 3-Step Torque Sequence: Using the factory Cummins torque pattern, tighten the 12-point nuts in three even stages: 40 ft-lbs, then 80 ft-lbs, and a final torque to 125 ft-lbs with a 14mm 12-point socket.

Note: On some Common Rail models, slight clearance notching on the lower rocker arm cover may be required for the exhaust-side studs.

Protect Your Cummins Build with D&J Precision

Whether you're repairing a blown head gasket or proactively bulletproofing your engine before turning up the power, the ARP Pro Series Cylinder Head Studs are the single best insurance policy for your 24V Cummins engine.

Ready to bulletproof your Cummins? Order your ARP Pro Series Cylinder Head Stud Kit today!