Head gasket sealant or no sealant????

[VJW]

Does anyone recommend using a sealant applied to a head gasket before installing it or should it be installed dry? What is the normal practice and what sealant is is used if any?

Thanks, Vic

[Tigerhaze]

I can't speak to JD crawler engines, but generally for copper/metal head gaskets there is a copper gasket sealant/coating that is applied.

http://www.permatex.com/products/automo ... ealant.htm

If a composite head gasket, they are usually applied dry.

I usually use a non-hardening sealant (Permatex #2 or similar) on head bolts that penetrate water passages.

http://www.permatex.com/products/Automo ... ealant.htm

Hope this helps.

[Lavoy]

If you are talking about a metal head gasket, ALWAYS use some sort of dressing on them. I use Copper Spray-a-Gasket or CopperKote extensively. I have also used Hylomar, but it is spendy and hard to find around here.
Lavoy

[mini kahuna]

I use the copperkote as well

[VJW]

Thanks, Actually its my Dad's 620 that blew a head gasket. I've replaced several 420/430 head gaskets and it always seems like they seep a little after a year or two of use. Usually in the winter. One fella told me to dip them in oil before I applied them and I have heard of many guys using a variety of different products. I will try and get some copperkote tomorrow. Good info!

[Lavoy]

Oil is the prescribed installation method according to Deere, the copper sprays are a lot less messy I think and stick around longer term. I would use the copper sprays on the 620 as well.
I have heard of people using aluminum spray paint, but the cost is no different than the products designed for gaskets applications, so have never tried it.
Lavoy