does any one have a suggestion on where to buy a good but reasonably priced head kit? i've heard that i should go back with studs instead of bolts. is this true, and where can i get them. any hidden secrets that i need to be aware of ? or shortcuts and so on. gettin ready to tackle a head job on my 01 2500hd. should i get the heads machined once a taken them off? thanks for all the help in advance

Take the heads in to be checked at the very least. The stock head bolts will be good if you keep under 550RWHP IIRC. But they are a one time use item, so replace them! Best head gaskets you can get is from the dealer or GMpartdirect.com, but be sure you have the correct part numbers for that website.

When torqueing the heads down, use the 02 TQ specs, as they are tighter than the 01's were from the factory, hence so many failures on the 01's. Would be a great time to thave the heads ported and polished while you have them off, incase you decide to install some power adding upgrades later.

If you decide on studs, be sure to follow the instructions to the "T"!

Tony

thx alot for the quick reply. exactly what i needed.

there is also 3 diffrent thickness head gaskets. there are holes on the old ones to identify which ones you need. when we do heads at work we lift the body off. at the least you should take the fenders off it will make it a lot easier to get at some of the bolts. and less back ache.