First off, why are head studs better? Despite the fact that BMW engineers some of the worlds most revered engines, during number crunching something always has to be a compromise.
One item that is always found to be a weak point- the OEM hardware. It is definitely sub-par for real performance use under high stress such as modded engines and track use.
Whenever the head is coming off, your switching to forced induction, or if you are simply prepping to drive your car hard; we highly recommend switching to far superior race-grade hardware.
These Head Stud Kits greatly improve reliability; helping to eliminate movement of the of the cylinder head and intern, gasket failure caused by inferior OEM head-bolt stretch.
This is the #1 cause of premature head gasket failure, especially on boosted or high output engines. Though more expensive than OEM, converting to one of our head studs kits will not only give added strength and reliability when its needed most, but provides the most accurate torque readings because studs don’t “twist” into the block; all clamping forces are on one axis, and there is less force exerted on the normally stressed threads of the block. This increases block and hardware life and typically makes the head easier to properly install to the block, a blessing if your head may have to be removed more than once. Especially in the time crunch of racing, when engines are dissembled frequently, studs make removing and installing the cylinder head on to the block a much easier task. By allowing the studs to act as a guide on to the head, your head slides on and off and also ensures proper alignment of the head and gasket for the same reason. It is similar to converting your wheel-bolts to wheel-studs.
Raceware Fasteners for BMW applications offer excellent performance and quality for each BMW application. They exceed all OEM specs and are a non-stretch type making them ideal for serious performance and a race ready BMWs. When your looking for ultimate reliability, depend on Raceware.
There are many advantages to using Raceware Fastener's Head Stud Kit.
Each Raceware fastener receives a special Aerospace Spec anti-corrosion coating that is most appropriate for the application. Some companies do not apply ANY corrosion protection, which can result in premature fracture.
Raceware fasteners feature a guaranteed minimum tensile strength of 205,000 PSI and military spec rolled FINE threads after heat-treat to eliminate head gasket leaks. "Imitation" studs use coarse threads and low-grade steel which results in lower clamp force, higher friction and "torque scatter."
Raceware uses billet, hardened, CNC machined washer properly distributes load and eliminates stress risers in head caused by cheap stamped steel washers that bend and have razor sharp edges.