thread sealant

[Boiler Ben]

what brand or type of thread sealer is recommended for the bolts going into the timing cover?  Looks like coolant will go into the oil if this isn't done well.

[blykins]

Going into the timing cover?  Or going from the timing cover and water pump into the block?  I just use a dab of silicone on the bolts since I already have it out when I put the gasket on.  But you could use something like a Permatex thread sealant as well. 

It won't get water into the oil, it will just leak to the outside of the engine.   (Not like I've ever done that before.......................)

[Boiler Ben]

OK, I see what you mean, I was thinking of coolant leaking into the timing cover but I see that won't happen.  You mention bolts going into the timing cover.  Maybe the oil pan ones and fuel pump ones?  Same thing there meaning a Permatex thread sealant would be OK there too?

[jayb]

There are only two bolts that need sealant.  The bottom water pump bolt on the right (passenger) side, and the timing cover bolt that is closest to that water pump bolt.  Both of those bolts go into the water jacket so you have to put sealer on the threads when installing them.

[Rory428]

In addition to what others have said, I also put a light coat of RTV on the threads of the smaller upper timing cover to block bolts, on FE engines, because they thread into holes in the block that are open to the lifter valley front wall, so potentially oil could wick thru the threads, and out onto the timing cover.

[Boiler Ben]

Thanks guys. Makes sense.