Whether your truck is a work truck or you have it built for all out performance it can benefit from upgrading to head studs. They will eliminate the torque to yield problem that many engines experience due to stretched bolts.
High Tensile Strength
Unlike the stock head bolts which stretch, Head Studs do not. The reason is that they are made of ductile metal which has a limit on how much "stretch" it can take before its physical properties change. When the stud reaches this point, or yields, it's time to replace them because they can't be used again.
Torque Capability
Head studs can be tightened with much greater torque than stock head bolts without damaging the fastener or the head gasket. This is due to the fact that they do not stretch like bolts do under torsional load (twisting) and vertical loads (axial).
To ensure proper function, it is important to read the stud maker's installation instructions and to follow them. This will help you achieve a slight preload on the studs, which is the correct way to install them. Also, studs should be torqued to the recommended value using the proper lubricant and a quality torque wrench.
In high performance applications, where the engine can produce more than twice its original torque output, there may be a need to increase the size of the head fasteners or upgrade their material.
No Stretching
In addition to providing a superior seal for the head gasket, studs allow easier main cap installation and contribute to better block/head alignment. Also, they are not subject to the "torque to yield" failure that is characteristic of factory bolts.
As explained in this video, a stud's resistance to stretching is related to the stud sizing and material. A stud with more resistance will need to be tightened to a higher torque value before bottoming out and causing a leak (see this video).
This is why studs are preferred in high performance applications, but may not always be the best choice from a practical standpoint. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations when installing your studs. A nut that is tightened beyond the recommended value can cause damage to the engine. Also, be sure to use consistent torque values when tightening your studs. This will help achieve a more uniform and accurate pre-load torque setting.
Easy to Install
Unlike a bolt where the head and block are rotated to a calculated torque-to-yield which creates uneven pressure, studs simply hand screwed into the blocks fine threads and tightened with a nut. This results in more uniform clamping pressure on the head gasket and allows for easier and quicker installation.
Head studs are also reuseable. They can be removed and reinstalled multiple times, something not possible with a bolt. This is especially important for performance engines or racing applications where the engine may be removed and reinstalled several times during its life.
When installing head studs, be sure to lubricate the exposed "fine" threads on the studs, washers and nuts. Lubricating the studs helps prevent rust and corrosion from forming on the threads. It is also important to use consistent tightening techniques, using slow and steady rotations to reach the desired torque value. This helps avoid over-tightening which can damage the stud, block or head.