I am currently in the middle of my first engine rebuild and I am getting reading to install the heads, but if I remember correctly someone once told me that I needed some type of sealer on the head bolts. Is this true? If so what exactly do I need to use on them? My engine is a stock 396 from a '66 chevelle. Thanks for the help.

Pharmer,
We use Permatex "Indian Head" gasket shellac. It seems to work well. Also have used Loctite's PST thread sealer, it is a teflon type white paste. Both are available at any good auto parts store.
While you are at it, make sure and put a little oil on the underside of the bolt head, where it contacts the cylinder head. This will give you a much more accurate torque reading.
Hope this helps,

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Bill Koustenis
Advanced Automotive Machine
Waldorf Md

1971 Heavy Chevy - original owner
Team Chevelle #100

I use permatex black #2 non hardening sealer, it has never let me down..if you are re using the original bolts make sure to wire brush the threads to clean any old sealer off before putting the new stuff on.

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70 chevelle ss396 conv
66 chevelle ss396 hdp/conv
55 chevy prostreet
69/71 camaros
TC member #493

YOU CAN USE ANY TIPE OF THREAD SEALER, OR MOTOR OIL ON THE HEAD BOLTS, BUT IT WILL GIVE A DIFFERENT READING ON A TOURQUE WRENCH