Head gasket sealer/dressing on 3830711?

[Jim V.]

It appears the 3830711 GM head gasket comes with some type of silver coating applied. Is it recommended to install dry (as-is) or with additional high temp alum spray paint or other dressing?

Yep...this is a steel head 4.020 bore application.

Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: Head gasket sealer/dressing on 3830711?

Jim-----

Actually, I think the shim gaskets (like the 3830711) that are pre-coated don't really need to be otherwise coated prior to installation. Also, I never saw any evidence that the shim type gaskets I removed from engines had any factory-applied sealant. However, when I used to use the shim-type gaskets, I always otherwise coated them, anyway. I used spray-on Copper Coat. It's still available.

[Jim V.]

Thnks Joe....

I suppose it can add a little more sealing protection....My deck heights are off .009 from side to side...so...I will be using a 3830711 on the short side and a FP1094 on the tall side. This should even up the SCR and quench.

[Joe L.]

Re: Thnks Joe....

Jim-----

Use no sealer, at all, on the side with the composition gasket.