Head bolt sealant

jdtower23

Petty Officer 1st Class
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May 12, 2007
Messages
220
Can anyone tell me which head bolt holes exactly need sealant because they are in the water jacket? Engine is 4.3 OMC '88...also, what should I apply on the ones that don't go into the water jacket?

Thanks!
 

Bt Doctur

Supreme Mariner
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Aug 29, 2004
Messages
19,092
Re: Head bolt sealant

All the head bolts enter the water jacket, all need sealant
Permatex Aviation Sealant works nicely.
 

jdtower23

Petty Officer 1st Class
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May 12, 2007
Messages
220
Re: Head bolt sealant

Will Permatex #2 work? I haven't seen the aviation stuff in any stores yet....
 

Bt Doctur

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Aug 29, 2004
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19,092
Re: Head bolt sealant

it should ,I`ve always used a liquid type.
Most good auto parts shouold carry it or order it .
 

jdtower23

Petty Officer 1st Class
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May 12, 2007
Messages
220
Re: Head bolt sealant

I looked it up, and I actually have seen it before....would it be worth it to go ahead and buy the Aviation if I already have the #2? What's the advantage of the liquid type?

Thanks
 

Bt Doctur

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Messages
19,092
Re: Head bolt sealant

comes in a big container with a brush attached to the cap, fingers don`t get coated along with the bolt,impossable to step on and get it all over the boat.
When replacing the bolts it`s a good idea to clean the block holes with a tap and to wire brush the bolts clean.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: Head bolt sealant

When replacing the bolts it`s a good idea to clean the block holes with a tap and to wire brush the bolts clean.

Then with the liquid, it makes a nice even coat so it's fast, easy, and it doesn't affect the torque if you do the above first.
 
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