Locktite on head bolts,yes or No ?

A friend of mine (Chevy guy) were discussing whether or not use the "blue" Locktite on cylinder head bolts,as a practice should one(ME) use the Blue Locktite thread locker on new head bolts? Thanks,Jay B.Britt,Jr.

 

I've had good results using Loctite pst thread sealant on head bolts for both chev and Buick engines. I use the (242) red bottle (it comes out blue) for oil pan bolts so they dont' back off. I don't think you will have a problem with the bolts leaking using the 242. They for sure won't back out but chasing the threads won't be fun.
Ray

 

NO! You can use blue locktite in alot of places, but your headbolts are not one of them. Headbolts need to be brought up to torque specs in stages, and in a specific order (see a motor manual), and then re-torqued after the engine has been run for awhile to make sure they are all at the proper torque value. Threadlocker dries around the bolts and will keep you from getting an accurate torque reading on the head bolts.
Guys from the other side (chevy, ford, mopar, etc) that have head bolts that go into the water jackets have to use thread sealer on the headbolts to keep the water from seeping past the threads into the rest of the engine, but Buicks have blind holes at the headbolts, so thread sealer isn't necessary.
Later, Randy

 

Good point Randy if you are going to retorque the bolts after the engines ran. I used the pst in place of moly lube on the buick. Moly lube would be best.
Ray

 

The engine manufacturer is going to specify "some" lube on the threads--generally engine oil but not always.

If you use a different lube or sealer than what is specified--you will need to adjust the torque applied to the bolts because the thread friction has been altered by the change in schlubba.

Just be aware of the need to alter the torque values with different goop on the threads.

 

Thanks to all that commented,yes you are right that I may have to re-torque the head bolts.:TU: Jay B.Britt,Jr.

 

I know of no Buick engine builder that uses loctite on head bolts. Buick never did.

 

I re-torque them 3 x before i start it up as these are the TA instructions.
Jamie

 

Think of how many people have not used locktite and had no issues. Sounds completely unnecessary. :beers2:

 

Wisdom prevails...:Smarty: Thanks,everyone.Jay B.Britt,Jr.