gasket sealer on head gaskets?

[wantabe]

is it recommended to use a sealer on 3.1 head gaskets or install them dry?

[discnik]

Never use any type of sealer on head gaskets.

[tblake]

Originally Posted by discnik

Never use any type of sealer on head gaskets.

Correction, some people use copper spray on their 3800 SC head gaskets prior to installing them. This is mainly only due to the Boost produced by the supercharger. Since your 3100 isn't force inducted, I would also say to install them dry, but its your call.

Permetex Copper Spray

ZZP 3800SC Head Gasket Tech Article using Copper Spray

Your call.

[CrazyHorst]

The "old style" head gaskets with two thin sheets of metal sandwiching a layer of <gasp!> asbestos are definitely candidates for copper coat.

However, replacing the "graphite" based gaskets that your engine came with I'd install clean and dry.