A bolt threaded on both ends instead of just one with a head affixed to the other, head studs are basically just a bolt that is threaded on both ends. One of the ends will be fastened or screwed into the block, with the head placed over the end sticking up. A nut will be affixed onto the openly threaded end and then torqued down. Factory produced head studs are known as "torque to yield", which means that they're only able to be used a single time.
The Benefits of Diesel Head Studs
If coolant creeps into the intake stream due to EGR cooler failure, or if a head gasket begins to leak, the head studs will stretch unless they're clamped to the block. Diesel vehicles have very high pressure in the cylinders, so a lot of clamping force is needed. When you need to replace your head studs, you'll find them here at excellent prices with speedy shipping.