What is a heat cycle...

Instead of a full reassembly I have an auxiliary fuel tank hanging from the rafters...instead of putting it all back together and then breaking it down again.

I presume the only influence is there is zero air flowing around the engine.

If I 'm re-torquing the head gasket after a realistic heat cycle...what, in your opinion, should I bring the engine temp up to, and for how long should I maintain that temp before re-torquing the head bolts again.
Get it hot and then retorque immediately? Wait for the cool down and then do it?

I use an infared sensor to check the exhaust pipe outlets and surrounding engine for temp...

Keep it at 3k for short time? Let it idle until desired heat is achieved? Combine the two?

What is your technique?

Thanks for sharing.

New cam? If so, 2500-3000 rpms for 20 mins at first start.

If not, you can still get it up to a reasonable temp let let it cool before retorquing. A couple large floor fans directed at the motor is a good idea in either scenario

Never torque head bolts when the engine is "warm" let it sit at least overnight before torqing them.

First re torque after 50 miles, then again at 500 has always worked for me.

I have found that on initial start up, using a composite gasket, it is wise to run it for about 15 minutes or so with fans on it. Don't ride it yet. Check the oil temp to see how hot it has got. It should be relatively hot. Let cool over night and then retorque. Ride it for about 15 miles or so but gently. Let it cool over night again and torque it again. I have retorqued the head 5 times to be sure. Always loosen the bolt first then tighten to spec.