SBM Head Stud Kit '68-'91 318-360

The SBM Head Stud Kit '68-'91 318-360 is a cylinder head fastening system engineered for small-block Mopar engines spanning four decades of production. This kit addresses a critical reliability concern for enthusiasts and mechanics rebuilding or modifying Chrysler's venerable 318 and 360 cubic-inch engines—traditional bolts lack the clamping force and fatigue resistance needed under high rpm, boost, or sustained heat cycles. Head studs replace factory bolts with a superior fastening architecture that maintains head gasket compression throughout the engine's lifecycle, preventing leakage and catastrophic gasket failure during performance driving or heavy towing.

Manufactured from chromoly steel and finished in black oxide, this kit delivers measurably higher tensile strength and superior corrosion resistance compared to standard hardware. The 12-point nut design provides more contact surfaces during torquing, reducing fastener slippage and enabling precise, repeatable clamp load across all cylinder head studs. Black oxide coating protects against rust while maintaining professional appearance under the valve cover. The complete kit weighs 4.85 lbs and arrives pre-packaged with all studs and fasteners required for a full head assembly, eliminating the guesswork of sourcing matched hardware from multiple suppliers.

Mechanics rebuilding carbureted or fuel-injected small-block Mopars from 1968 through 1991 will find this kit essential for any bottom-end or top-end refresh where head removal is necessary. Installation requires proper torque sequencing and a quality torque wrench calibrated to manufacturer specifications—studs must be installed and tightened in a crisscross pattern to ensure even gasket pressure and prevent warping. This kit is compatible with stock or performance cylinder heads and works seamlessly with standard Mopar gasket sets, making it the go-to choice for hot rod builders, street performance upgrades, and long-block restorations seeking long-term reliability.