They really are just additional insurance. The problem is they are cumbersome and slow you down quite a bit to work on the valve train.
I would say you only really "need" them for a mechanical roller lifter camshaft.
The 7/16" studs are pretty sturdy but if you race should be changed out periodically for safety. On the Windsors I've broken a few of the 3/8" studs. That's pretty common.
They are pretty though and you will only know if you needed them (past tense) if you brake a stud, then it's too late.
You will probably need taller valve covers then stock to use them.
Either way, this isn't a bad deal.
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