Friday I re-torqued the head bolts in the proper fashion. They were a little loose- as in not 80ft lbs.
So got them to 80. Have put about 200 miles on since and no noticeable usage yet. So I think we might have a winner. Thanks all for the help.
Also drove the half ton about 150 miles this weekend. no usage on it either(noticeable)

For applying torque to the center stud I use a long extension with a crows foot on it- I found a somewhat long crows foot at harbor freight. I then slide it around the obstructions and then apply torque. works fine and does not contact anything.

Could you make that curved extension?
take a long extension- fix each end in something sturdy and heat the center while making sure that the ends stay straight- then curve the center section. It would take lots of heat and a decent hammer to tap the curve into it.
just an idea.



1949 Chevy 4400 Big Red
1949 Chevy 3600 Bob's Truck
1949 Chevy 3100 The Investment
1949 Chevy 3800 the Won Ton