Head Bolts

[Butterfinger]

For the smaller, lower head bolts, what's the best type and brand sealer for the threads to prevent leaks?

 

[90stang5speed]

When I did mine, I got ARP head bolts from summit & they came with a sealant/lube. I'm no pro so I cant say that's the best but, its what I used & haven't had a problem yet.

 

[Butterfinger]

I got the same grease with my ARP studs, but no sealer. Permex makes a thread sealer (not their locker) which sounds like it'll do the trick.
Has anyone used gasket sealer on their threads?

 

[65ShelbyClone]

It depends on what kind of "gasket sealer" you're talking about; there are many different kinds. Silicone can work, but it is not entirely reliable in my experience.

I have ARP bolts and used their Teflon sealer. It's like a grainy white plumber's dope and I think it may affect fastener torque readings less than other sealers.

 

[jrichker]

I used Home Depot's Teflon pipe dope. It works good, is easily available and is not too expensive.

 

[Butterfinger]

Does the entire bolt/stud need "dope" or just the end threads?

 

[larrym1961]

The "dope" on the threads only will do the trick. I have used both Permatex thread sealant and regular ole pipe dope on head bolts and both seem to work about the same. I had no leaks with either.

 

[Rick 91GT]

I stopped using the teflin based liquid sealers a few years back, I use black permatex on the lower bolts....make sure you clean the threads are clean.

Moly on the uppers