Oiling Head Bolts

[boomboom]

I am putting a head back on a sentra and the manual says to keep the surfaces free from any oil, but it also says to oil the head bolts before installation. Won't the oil on the head bolts seep into the gasket area and ruin the seal on the head gasket? I already tap out the holes and clean up the bolts. Is oiling the bolts necessary?

Thanks.

[curtis73]

Its imperative to oil the threads. It won't seep. If you don't oil the threads you don't get accurate torque readings and they will fail VERY shortly. I've been doing it for years. Oil them. If it makes you feel better, use assembly lube. Its thicker, lubricates better, and won't drip or seep.

[boomboom]

I like the idea of using assembly lube on the head bolts. I will be using it anyway on the cams. Thanks for the tip.

[534BC]

Oiling carefully the threads and also under the head of bolt will give good tork and not get on the gasket, but even if it does get on gasket it won't hurt anything.

I've so many tricky (and untricky) things done to head gaskets by different people that I conclude they are very forgiving unless in a very high stress area. My favorite is still dry installation for most head gaskets unless they are metal.

ps Check holes for water and use sealant if in water.