ARP Head Stud Kit, BMW N54

This kit is engineered to replace BMW part # 11127574303 and is compatible with BMW N54B30 turbocharged inline-six engines found in a range of models, 135i, 335i, 535i, Z4 sDrive35i, X6 xDrive35i, and Alpina B3 Bi-Turbo.

This kit comes with 14x 11mm Studs, 14x Washers, and 14x Nuts offering increased clamping force and enhanced head gasket sealing, which can prevent head gasket failure. This is particularly crucial for high-performance or turbocharged engines, as the increased cylinder pressure puts additional stress on the head gasket and bolts.

Please note that this Head Stud Kit is not a retrofit from a Chrysler or Volvo stud kit. Unlike those kits, our kit was specifically designed for the BMW N54 engines.

Installation Instructions: 

N54 Standard Kit: This Standard Kit is a hassle-free, Bolt-On kit that requires no additional modifications. It includes all the necessary components for installation, including:

This comprehensive kit is designed to make installation easy and straightforward, providing all the necessary components for a successful upgrade.

1. To ensure proper thread engagement and accurate torque readings, clean ALL threads in the block. Chase if necessary with ARP Thread Chaser.

2. Clean and inspect all hardware prior to installation. Look for obvious defects or shipping damages, plus proper fit, length and dimension.

3. If the cylinder head studs protrude into a water jacket, lubricate the block threads of the studs with ARP THREAD SEALER.

4. Screw studs into the block “HAND TIGHT ONLY”.

5. Install the cylinder head(s) and check for binding or misalignment.

6. Lubricate the stud threads, nuts and washers with ARP ULTRA-TORQUE FASTENER ASSEMBLY LUBRICANT.

Then install the washers and the nuts onto the studs and tighten them hand tight.

ARP recommends using the ARP ULTRA-TORQUE FASTENER ASSEMBLY LUBRICANT that is provided with each kit as opposed to motor oil. This is due to higher friction on the studs as well as inconsistencies in the clamping force of the fasteners when motor oil or other low quality lubricants are used.

PRELOAD (TORQUE) RECOMMENDATIONS

7. Following the manufacturers recommended torque sequence tighten the nuts steps 1-3

Torque all 11 mm studs as follows:

Step 1: Tighten to 30 ft-lbs.

Step 2: Tighten to 60 ft-lbs.

Step 3: Tighten to 95 ft-lbs.

Torque all 9mm studs to 45 ft-lbs.  

with ARP Ultra-Torque fastener assembly lubricant

12	10	4	2	6	8	14
13	7	5	1	3	9	11

 

Please note: After initial assembly, it is necessary to allow the engine to complete a full heat cycle, then re-torque your head studs to spec. This means allowing the engine to warm up to its normal operating temperature, remain at operating temperature for several minutes to ensure each component is uniformly heated, then turned off and cooled completely to ambient temperature.