I just slapped my vortec heads on my sbc. Got all new GM head bolts. The bolts came from GM with a sealer already on them. After reading a similar thread I am wondering.... Do I NEED to add sealer to the factory sealer on the threads or is the factory sealer o.k.? Also if I need/decide to add sealer since the heads all allready on the block (not fired though) can I re-use/re-seal the NEW bolts. Again the I just put the heads on last week. The engine still hasn't been fired. I normally use Avaition sealer but since the GM bolts had a sealer on them I left them as they came.

Thanks
Randy "Bad-Habit"

You wont have a problem, Aviation sealer is a good substitute. However, ARP`s thread sealer has worked the best for me.

I always use teflon thread sealant as it works as anti- sieze as well...ARP is also good

Not sure what kind of sealer the GM bolts have or if the have enough. It could just be an antisieze or lube. Unless you know what it is, then I would pull one bolt at a time, seal it, and then replace it. Felpro recommends this process for a retorque also.

Well according to Salee Chevrolet the substance is sealer. My local machine shop stated that they were fine to use as is....
BH