I've been using RTV on Chevy head bolts since I found out it existed back in the olden days. No problems that I know of. I never use that cheapie blue stuff though. Always one of the Ultra products.
For instance, the 400 block in my DD Chevelle has 6 cracks from the steam holes to the adjacent head bolt holes. Installed studs with RTV, that was in 2001. Seems to be working OK so far.
Never any shortage of perspectives here at Chevelles.com.....
I have used the liquid K&W Copper Coat for 30 years and it works good. But all the thread sealant mentioned works good too. The problem that I have seen when using RTV is over application. Most people have a tendaency to use too much, all the excess has to go somewhere and that is what will cause a problem.
I've been using the Permatex thread sealant w/teflon (pictured above) for more years than I can remember (I didn't realize that it is now owned by Loctite).
I've tried others over the years and keep coming back to it (back to stay now).
I buy the large bottle and just dip head bolts into the bottle.
Before assembly, I use brake cleaner to flush any oil out of the block threads (then dry the threaded holes with compressed air) so that the sealant isn't compromised in making a good thread seal. :thumbsup:
I've used Ultra Copper in the past with no issues at all. However, on the last one I put together, I used the Loctite thread sealent. Just seemed like a better idea.
For small blocks, GMPP sells a nice head bolt kit for cheap, and the bolts have a sealant patch pre-applied.
pipe thread compound with teflon. i only use high temp silicone on the center bolt holes of a sbc 400. the heads are known for cracking from the steam hole to the bolt hole. antifreeze can seep up the bolt hole into the valve cover.
Pipe thread sealant with teflon here also from my plumbing bucket. Little heavy/thick...hope it doesnt throw off the torque readings. Then again, Permatex 2 is even thicker and nastier, and it works. That stuff is too dirty/messy for me anymore.
hope I have no leaks,my old motor had nothing for sealant,my old shop installed the heads-
they didnt use anything...they will never do anything for me again-they also honed it to 4.312-should have been sleeved or overbored to 70 over-lets drill the customer!!!!!crooks!!!
was same shop that built for freddy raimer,and billy pauch---dirt track winners!!
time will tell how the thread sealant works out--
rth
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