So here is my delima, my 2008 F350 king ranch has 98,000 miles on it. I took it to the local dealership which specalizes in heavy trucks. they have diagnosed the truck with headgasket failures. (both sides) With the truck being close to out of warranty im wondering if it would be a good idea to install studs which i can buy locally for $510 dollars. the dealer has already agreed to install them if that is the route i choose. what are your alls thoughts and ideas towards studs?

thanks,
Stephen

 

First is why the failure? What did they attribute that too? There are very few HG failures.

Obviously I'd stud it since you are there.

 

they are starting with the head gaskets, possible cooler failure too but they will know more when they get the cab off the truck, its been kind of interesting because they checked multiple things and finally after three days said they were putting head gaskets on it. it was showing multiple symptoms but that is where they are deciding to start. not sure what the cause is

 

Hmmm does not sound like they really know for sure. Not good. Codes? Eating coolant?

Bend any rods?

 

eating coolant and black residue in the bottle, spraying coolant all over the hood

 

Have them check the oil cooler as well.

 

Heck yeah head studs! Much better clamping force.

If/When I have HG issues, mine's getting them too.

Tim

 

If you plan on keeping the truck for a long time i would due the ARP studs, and if it were me id have them send the heads out for resurface and magnafluxed for cracks. The heads are know to develop stress cracks.

 

Stud it stud it stud it. It would be stupid not to if they are willing to doing it.