SBC Rocker Arm Studs

[mattimuss]

Hey All,

I took the Chevelle out for a "break-in ride" and on the way back she developed a "valve noise"
Once I got home I pulled the driver's side valve cover off and found the #7 intake rocker arm was no longer connected to the push rod.

When I tried turning the nut I found the entire stud twisting in my fingers. I ended up pulling the stud/rocker arm/washer/nut assembly out in one piece.

I have never seen this happen before, especially with threaded studs.

The heads were assembled by someone else prior to me taking possession of the vehicle.

I ordered new ARP studs and Perma-Lock nuts.

My questions are:
1. Which rocker arm studs screw into water jackets?

2. How do you Locktite studs that are placed in water jackets?

Or, should I just put Permatex seal all of the new studs, torque them down to 50flbs. and be happy?

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

v/r,
Matt

[chevymaher]

I was using thread sealer on my brodix heads. Brodix said to use this.

[mattimuss]

Hello chevymaher,

Thanks for the reply an info. I also have that type of Permatex on hand and was planning to use it.

To make sure I understand, you put the Permatex on ALL of the rocker arm studs and didn't worry about Loctite?

This is my first time dealing with rocker arm studs and I do not want to have to do this again.

v/r,
Matt

[chevymaher]

Any going into the water jacket I would use it. Just make sure they torqued down well.