Manifold studs... sealant or not?

[p24-1953]

When changing to headers the outer two studs backed out rather than the nuts removing.   So of course sealant poured out, but at least nothing snapped or broke, so I will take it as a win.  In the past I would place a little rtv or something on them but i was informed by a old timer this was a no no and would cause the bolts to seize over time.

They said they would snug down fine and not leak.  

So sealant or not?

[DrDoctor]

   I’ve used thread sealant in such situations, without any adverse effects. I’ve also used anti-seize on bolts/studs going into aluminum—again with no adverse effects. When I’ve encountered “leakers” such as you have, and I tried to install bolts/studs without any “liquid assistance”, for me, anyway, it’s a guarantee for a “seeper”, or a major “leaker”.

[Don Coatney]

I used Teflon tape on all manifold studs and on all head bolts.

[DrDoctor]

Don,

   I’ve done that, too, and with excellent results. I forgot all about that, tho’. I guess I’m getting older faster than I tho’t. Warmest regards to you.

[Hawkhero]

I've used both teflon tape and thread sealant on bolts with excellent results. Both will adjust to minor changes better than RTV and both do just fine with the higher temps. You can try nothing, but as mentioned, it could leak later on. I've learned this lesson the hard way several times. 

--Brian

[Tom Skinner]

Ditto, Teflon Tape keeps the leaks away. I have been doing this both ways since 1973, and Teflon Tape wins hands down.

Tom

[T120]

I have used "Kopr-Kote" anti seize for this application, ( manifold studs), successfully...

[DrDoctor]

T120,

   I’ve never heard of Kopr Kote. Where did you get it? Thx.

[T120]

1 hour ago, DrDoctor said:

T120,

   I’ve never heard of Kopr Kote. Where did you get it? Thx.

I've had it for a number of years and not sure where I purchased it, a little goes a long ways, it is a copper, high temperature, anti-seize compound . I see it is listed on Amazon along with other equivalent brands of  copper anti-seize compounds...a small brush top container isn't too expensive ...