Mercruiser 5.7 head and intake bolts

[CaliFormula]

Hello guys and gals,
so I’m in the process of putting my Mercruiser 260 back together and as I’m getting ready to put the intake manifold on I realized I didn’t put any thread sealer on any of my ARP head bolts. (Black coated ones that I reused). I used the ARP lubricant but no sealer. I believe some of these bolts go through the water jacket. Am I screwed? I know it’s not a good idea to torque a head gasket and open it again. Do I need the thread sealer? Can I back out and apply thread sealer one bolt at a time and retorque? I’m feeling like a real dummy right about now? Also do you guys use mercruiser perfect seal as a thread sealer? Please chime in and thank you in advance for your wisdom.

 

[Bt Doctur]

I use Permatex Aviation sealant on head and intake manifold bolts

 

[Bondo]

Can I back out and apply thread sealer one bolt at a time and retorque?

Ayuh,..... Welcome Aboard,....... Sure,.... no problem, 1 at a time,....

 

[Scott Danforth]

not sure how thread sealer would work with the ARP assembly lube (never seize)

you may need to clean the threads.

 

[CaliFormula]

Thanks guys!