my f20 is leaking just so slightly from between cylinders 2 and 3 causing some overheating and just to be on the safe side im going to assume the head gasket is going and replace it. In the past on my dsm when i did a head gasket i went with a multi layer and arp head studs to increase the strength under boost however with my s2k ive heard a multi layer will change the tune due to the thickness of the head gasket. is this true? i will be putting it back on with arp head studs however i will not be boosting it anytime soon if at all. with that said i do intend on doing a lot of road racing like NASA with my s2k so is a stock headgasket and arp head studs the right combo for me? thanks for the help

 

Do not use ARP studs on an s2k, you will be sorry. I've learned and proven this many years ago.

Nothing has more clamping power than new stock head bolts.

 

What's the deal with the Arp on s2ks?? Info please, iv delt with them on my integra and loved them but what's up with them on s2000s?

 

yes can you please explain why not to use arps? only reason i them is because you can re torque them. stock ones are worthless the second you unscrew them

 

Stock head gasket is MLS (multi-layer steel) just like the aftermarket ones. Unless you are going to boost the snot outta the motor use the stock head gasket.

Not true. Stock head bolts can be reused. There is a spec in the manual for the diameter. As long as they the diameter is not smaller than the spec, they can be reused.

As far as head studs, I don't see the need on a stock motor.

 

still stumped as to why i shouldnt use arp head studs and buy oem head studs...anyone care to elaborate

 

Several people have has multiple head gasket failures due to varying installed torque values with ARP's. they have been installed with lube, without lube, what kind of lube, torque wrench inaccuracies and varying recommended torque.

They offer no real benefit over stock head bolts, other than making your wallet lighter.

Use OEM headbolts with the OEM torque angle setting and have no problems.