SBC 400 Engines

Woo-hoooo!  Good news Paul.

Paul Yes if you can remove just the studs, reseal then re- torque to specs. here is a guide for you....

Check out these Head Stud Installation Tips prior to installation!

1. All hardware should be cleaned and inspected for possible shipping damage prior to installation.
2. Since most studs extend into the water jacket, coat threads with ARP thread sealer and screw in hand tight ONLY.
3. Install gasket and head, then lubricate washers and nuts with oil or ARP moly assembly lubricant prior to their installation.
4. Following the engine manufacturer's torque pattern, torque each stud nut three times to recommended values found in the general fastener chart below.

NOTE: To ensure positive sealing of "wet" head studs, a hardening or semi-hardening sealant, such as Loc-Tite or Permatex, etc. should be used. Some engine builders employ a sealer in the coolant, such as Aluma-Seal, Silver Seal or K&W sealer, etc. You may also use high temperature RTV silicone. Whatever product is used, it is imperative that the cylinder head is installed and torqued to proper levels BEFORE THE SEALANT HAS CURED!

Thanks much Larry. Awesome info. For a guy that's never done head studs directly before, I hope I get it right the first time.

Any recommendations on the best sealer to use in this situation?

great news paul. i did a lot of firsts working on my 90. just be patient and take your time. as far as the thread sealer, loctite has a high temperature sealer that may be what you need. the only thing you dont want to use is the super duty loctite as you would not be able to remove the bolts easily afterwards. on my escalade, they used the super on the frame that holds the rear disc brake caliper and i had to use a torch to loosen the bolt. that wouldn't be good for the block. good luck and i know you will do great. dave eddie208752009-02-08 19:15:51

Paul, Loc-Tite as was mentioned is good, I like Loctite 567 (used to be called PST). It's an anaerobic teflon sealant, high temp. It has never failed me.You can also use ARP Sealant part #100-9904  

Anaerobic sealants seal in the absence of air. It cures, but never hardens. It can be removed without heat.