What's the ideal torque for arp head studs? And how many steps when torqing them? Thanks

 

125 is the reccomended torque. I took mine to 100 ft-lbs, then increased in 5 ft-lbs increments until 125, then torqued it three times at that spec. Back off the nut before torqueing. Retorqued after running it to temp and cool, then drove it a couple days and retorqued. Been bagging on it since with good results.

 

Is it necessary to recheck the torque on the ARP studs?

 

Gaskets will start to settle and will reduce the stretch on the stud. It might not be as critical on a standard headgasket, but its a good idea with o-rings.

 

I just have the standard OEM head gasket with the ARP studs torqued to 125. Just wondering if I need to pull the cover and valve train to check the torque values....

 

Be pretty hard to check them all without pulling the valve cover or train.

 

Let me restate that: I don't want to pull the valve cover and rockers off unless I have to recheck the torques....

 

Depends how confident you are that they are tight enough. A couple hours could prevent a gasket blow out, and give you peace of mind. But in the end, its your call.