I have iron heads for my build up. But the previous owner had thrown in a new set of aluminum rocker stands. They have a steel insert in the middle where the head bolt goes through with a wide flange that looks to be bigger than the head of the bolt.

Question I have is this; can you use aluminum rocker stands on iron heads? Will the dissimilar metal expand and contract differently varying the clamping force on the head at those middle bolts? Do I need to use a different torque on those five bolts? I actually am thinking about using studs on the heads. I would think the same concern on torque on the dissimilar materials even with studs. Your thoughts?

Aluminum stands on iron heads are fine. With bolts or studs. Use the same torque on the bolts or studs regardless of the rocker stand material.

Phew. Thanks. This project has been spiraling out of control so I am glad I don't have to replace more items.

Make sure and set the valve lash hot, especially with the aluminum stands