head gasket- use sealant or not?

[Moose33]

I got my cylinder head back from the machine shop today and am getting ready to bolt it back on. Now, I've heard some people say to coat the gasket with something to help it seal, and I've heard/read elsewhere just to fit it all together and torque it down.

thanks.
I don't want to have to do this again anytime soon, so which way is the right way??

 

[703MGB]

No sealant or glue. Clean surface and new gasket, torque to specs. Ride for 2 weeks and re-torque.

Did you have your heam skimmed for highe compression?

 

[Moose33]

if it makes any difference, I'll be using a copper gasket.

and, I got mine (head) skimmed .008 - the max they would do on a "non-racing" application..

 

[703MGB]

thanks for the info

 

[John Moore]

I used a payen composite gasket, no sealent necessary.

 

[Moose33]

thanks to both of you for your input /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[BradHollister]

It might be too late, but you can pick up some Permatex copper gasket sealant at your local auto parts store. Its supposed to fill in small irregularities, improve heat transfer, and sealing. I used it on my 948 race motor, I'm sure it won't hurt to use on a street engine either.

https://permatex.carshopinc.com/product_info.php/products_id/42287/80697

Brad Hollister

 

[Moose33]

it's never too late for useful information /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif
And, I was wrong.. I had a payen composite gasket and it went on dry. I haven't turned her over yet, want to at least get my manifolds back on <-- duh, carbs too (early morning, not awake yet)