[boredandglued]

im about to install a set of aluminum brodix heads on my sbc. can anyone tell me if i need to use washers under the bolts? the bolts are new and the head of the bolt looks like a washer is built in. <-----does that make any sense. also can someone tell me what the white stuff in on the threads of the bolts? is it a lube of some sort or is it a sealer also should i use rtv sealer on the bolts. thanks in advance i wouldnt have even got this far if it wasnt for some of your help thanks again

[F-BIRD'88]

Ya you need the hardened head bolt washers. Ya its thread sealer.

[ericnova72]

The white stuff is pre-applied sealer, if it has really dried out you may want to remove it and use a fresh sealer.

With aluminum heads you always need a washer in order to prevent galling the head surface, even if the bolt has a built-in washer head. The washer acts as a bearing, it is a hard surface for the bolt head to seat against so it doesn't tear up the aluminum. Put some lube between the washer and the bolt underhead surface to get a true torque reading when assembling.

[SSedan64]

GM does sell & use a Head Bolt Kit with the flange for use on Iron or Aluminum Heads but, it's best to use a washer.
GM #12495499 >> http://www.gmpartsdirect.com/ I've seen these used on a few Al. Head GM Crate motors without washers.

[boredandglued]

i got the correct washers for my bolts.