Head Gasket....sealant or not?

[Johnnyrock70]

TO SEAL OR NOT TO SEAL....THAT IS THE QUESTION
Hey guys,
I'm putting the new head and head gasket with new bolts on this weekend.
QUESTION: do I just put the gasket on dry? Or do I put some type of gasket sealant on before I screw it down? ('49 CUB)
THANKS FELLAS - J.R. in VA

[Jim Becker]

You would think there would only be 2 answers to that question, yes or no. But you will probably get at least 6, all different. Some will say no, most of the others will probably recommend their favorite head gasket sealer. Bottom line, it isn't that critical. Use it or not, the important thing is to properly torque the bolts in steps, in sequence and retorque after the engine has been warmed up. Follow the torque and sequence instructions in the manual.

The sealer usage that is important is on the threads of the bolts themselves. Again, you will get several recommendations for sealers and antisieze. Any of them will be vastly better than not doing it at all. Not using anything on the threads would be a major mistake.

[beaconlight]

Jim said it like it is.

[Rick Spivey]

I agree with Mr. Becker 100%. A response that plain spoken is probably the only way to get everyone to agree on this question...

[artc]

Not using anything on the threads would be a major mistake.

and will become apparent fairly quickly - antifreeze leaking out around the bolt heads, and out the bolt that attaches the air cleaner.

[KETCHAM]

Spray copper cote on head gasket,teflon sealant and head bolts to keep from leaking.Watch how you toqure[?] the head bolts,there is a pattern,and re-do after its warmed up.Kevin have fun!!!!