Gasket Dressing?

Currently doing a Hone, new pistons/rings etc.

Wondering if anyone has a dressing or compound they like to use on new base and head gaskets when rebuilding?

Thanks.

I used #2 Permatex non-drying on the base. You should not need anything for the head gasket, just make sure you torque in sequence to the proper spec.

I have always put those gaskets on dry. Just make sure the surface is VERY clean. Never had a problem with leaks

I've always put the both on clean and dry. The copper head gaskets can be painted with a hi-temp aluminium or copper paint. Fibre gaskets are I believe put on dry and clean.

I am starting to rebuild more and more engines and have learned to love NAPA's spray gasket sealer. The secret of a good seal is surface prep; cleaning and then wiping with solvent and then using the spray. It comes out red but overspray wipes off. The seal is great and you don't have a hard time with disassembly clean up if you take it apart. I have had problems in the past with some engines as the gasket mating surfaces tended to leak more than other engines in spite of good preperation. This stuff works and seals in all cases.

Thanks very much for all the good advice.

Do you all think COPPER the very best way to go on the head gasket? Or doesn't it realy make too much of a difference?

Thanks.

Bwhahaha... if you were a drag racer pulling the head every other pass it makes sense to use a reusable copper gasket... BUT THEY LEAK OFTEN! I would stick to what comes in your gasket kit. If you seal them with some goop, it defeats the purpose as I would guess you will likely ruin the gasket removing it.

Fibre gaskets will do just fine for street applications. Unless you have a high compression kit or routinely pull your head off.