Im building an LS-Vtec and Im using some ARP head bolts. Ive noticed that when you put them on the block the only way to tighten them is with an allen wrench. Also once the head is on and I try to tighten the nuts onto the bolts either the bolts will start coming out or the nut will go too far in. I dont have a torque wrench so Im kinda just shooting for the proper torque specs. The only socket that Ive found to fit the ARP nuts is a 1/2" star pattern socket and Ive noticed that the star pattern only comes in a shirt socket. My question is... How exactly am I supposed to go about setting the ARP head bolts, washers, and nuts so I can properly tighten them??

 

You need to get a torque wrench unless you plan on blowing your headgasket because of improperly torqued bolts. I found with studs that when you start tightening the nuts that go on them, the stud goes tighter into what it is screwed into. I don't know about ARP bolts because I have no experience with them but that is what I would assume since I have worked with other studs before.