The need for springs and retainers largely is determined by the cam of choice and the RPM range intended to be used while running that cam. And with that said, you don't just use any spring retainer set. You need to "match" your springs/retainers to the cam and it's profile.
You need to decide on the cam you wish to run, and then determine the RPM range you will be using the cam at (assuming the cam's lift/duration specs do not already require use of a "upgraded" valvetrain) before you just decided to do a valvetrain upgrade.
BAMBAM is right.. The ARP head studs are superior to the stock headbolts. This is a great book (
Amazon.com: Carroll Smith's Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners and Plumbing Handbook (Motorbooks Workshop): Books: Carroll Smith) and while I'm not a big reader at all, I was actually drawn in by this one. VERY good book. It'll answer all of your questions on why the ARP head studs (or any head
stud for that matter is the proper fastener for this application)
