Truck longevity

[TXFF]

I have came to grips with my mpg, now I'm looking for longevity and looking for some input

mods done
- H&S xrt pro
- cat/dpf delete
- S&B CID

Plans (in order)
- ERG blocking plates
- Coolant filter

? any other idea/ suggestions

[B585Ford]

Originally Posted by TXFF

I have came to grips with my mpg, now I'm looking for longevity and looking for some input

mods done
- H&S xrt pro
- cat/dpf delete
- S&B CID

Plans (in order)
- ERG blocking plates
- Coolant filter

? any other idea/ suggestions

I recently popped a head gasket so my vote is studs!!!!

[TXFF]

Originally Posted by B585Ford

I recently popped a head gasket so my vote is studs!!!!

My only question is, if I change the studs is that a cab off kind of job? because if so I would rather just what until I bust a stud before I do the whole cab off thing

[B585Ford]

I've always been told if you don't have a head gasket problem and you don't have too many miles, that you could thread them one at a time. One stud at a time can be done cab on. Also, I am pretty sure if you blow a head gasket, you have to send the heads off to milled (my estimate for that alone is close to $1000 [for both heads]) to make sure they are completely flat. To the best of my understanding, they can't be milled by just any machine shop because the tolerance is very low. Before I blew my head gasket, I was planning to wait until H-11s came out (although most would say it is an overkill), thread them one at a time, and not pull the cab. I admit that I am biased towards trying to make my truck as reliable as possible. Also, I know some of the people who I think know the most about these engines recommend that when you do the studs, you replace the gasket which does mean cab off.

[cbenn]

When I replaced HG's, sent the heads to machine shop and the cost was $300.00, the whole job including all the parts in my signature was $5,200.00 = peace of mind.

[bentstroke_02]

switch the xrt pro for a black max or mini max. Do a complete coolant flush, use restore and restore+. Switch ford coolant out with cat elc. Get a external tranny filter. You can do head studs if you want/ can affored it but up to you. I havent done it but im going to once i get all the parts bought. If you are going to pull the cab might as well make it worth your time i would think.