A common question that we are asked by the community is how to install our TSP Head Stud Kit without removing the cylinder head. The proper way to install head studs is to remove the cylinder head, replace the head gasket, then install the head studs. But, if you're installing these head studs as a preventative measure, removing the head just for that is pretty annoying. This is where the "one-by-one method" (we're calling it 1B1 for simplicity) comes into play. We've tested this method with multiple cars and have found no issues reported when taking proper precautions. Here is a step-by-step guide for you L15 owners, as well as things to look out for!
Before You Begin...
In the packaging of your TSP Head Stud Kit, there should be a piece of paper with written instructions for those removing the cylinder head. You can still reference this piece of paper for the numerical sequence, but please follow the instructions below if installing these via the 1B1 method.
1. Please open your kit and make sure you have 10 head studs, 10 cat paw washers, 10 nuts, and 1 pack of grease.
2. Remove the valve cover from the top of the cylinder head. A video tutorial on removing that can be found here. If you are having difficulty removing your valve cover, stop here, and consult a trusted mechanic to install this head stud kit for you.
Removing the HPFP Base
3. After removing the valve cover, you will need to remove the high pressure fuel pump base. This is attached by a few bolts that are threaded into the cylinder head and some RTV. Remove all attached connections; O2 sensors, EVAP hoses, camshaft position sensors, rear camshaft plate, high pressure fuel pump, etc., and store them in a safe and clean place. When removing the cam plate, please take care to not bend this plate. It is also sealed with RTV, so be extra patient with it. While this is already off, we highly recommend replacing this with a Rear Cam Plate by Wunderladen Racing, which eliminates the need to use RTV.
4. Once you have verified that all components are loose, gently pry the HPFP base off the cylinder head. Take care to not damage the surface of the cylinder head.
5. After that has been removed, carefully verify that all supplied hardware in the kit is clean and free of any debris.
Out with the Old & In with the New
6. Clean the residual oil off from the area that you’re working in with a shop towel, if necessary. Pull the first factory head bolt out, indicated by #1 on the diagram and verify that the thread holes are clean and free of any debris.
7. Grease the lower threads of the new ARP head stud. The hexagonal socket should be facing you.
8. Thread the head stud into the block until hand tight. Ensure that each stud is fully bottomed out into the block. You may use an allen key at this point to make sure it’s fully bottomed out, but do not overtighten.
9. Grease the top of the cat paw washer (non-textured side), bottom of the nut (smooth side), and the tops of the threads on the new head stud.
10. The mating surface that the cat paw washer lays on should specifically be clear of oil or any other contaminants. Place cat paw washer over the head stud with the textured side facing the cylinder head.
11. Thread the nut onto the head stud until hand tight.
12. Torque to 25 ft-lbs, then 50 ft-lbs, and finally, 70 ft-lbs. DO NOT TIGHTEN PAST 70 FT-LBS!
13. Repeat these steps following the numerical sequence on the diagram. ONLY PULL ONE HEAD BOLT AT A TIME!
Finishing Touches
14. Once all 10 have been replaced, you will need to clean the cylinder head surface from RTV thoroughly before reinstalling. You can use a razor blade and/or carburetor cleaner for this. As you are cleaning, take extra care to NOT drop any pieces of RTV into the cylinder head as doing so could result in oil starvation.
15. You will want to reinstall the parts in the opposite order that you removed them, starting with the HPFP base. Once this has been thoroughly cleaned, you can place a thin line of Honda Genuine RTV on the cylinder head, place the HPFP base on top, and bolt it in. The same can be done with the cam plate. This RTV should be left to set for 24 hours before running the engine.
16. Reinstall the rest of the loose components, sensors, hoses, cables, covers, etc. If you have no leftover hardware or parts, pat yourself on the back, and admire a job well done.
If you are not confident in this install after reading this tutorial, then I would consult with a trusted mechanic to complete the job for you. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have, or to offer support if any problems arise during the install via support@twostepperformance.com.
Two Step Performance was founded in 2017, preceded by a lifelong passion for modifying and driving turbocharged imports. We began with a small assortment of handpicked brands that we have personally used and believed in. As the company and the community around us have grown, we have continued to add carefully selected product lines to our catalog. In addition to offering brands that you already know and trust, one of our favorite things to do is to identify innovative new products and emerging brands and add them to our catalog as well. We only sell products that we believe in. We also take great pride in offering the best experience to our customers every step of the way. If we can help answer questions on your next build, give us a shout on our contact page.
