Finally getting around to getting this 440 back together and I have a question regarding installing the head gaskets. The deck of the 440 had the usual surface rust from sitting for a couple of years,nothing major and after hours of elbow grease I have them cleaned up. I dont ever recall using a gasket sealer when replacing head gaskets in years past ( its been a few years)but looking through the Chrysler manual they state to use a proper gasket sealer when installing head gaskets. Seeing that there may be slight pitting on the deck surfaces,should I use a sealer? If so,what would anyone recommend? Thanks ahead of time guys!

it depends on the type of gasket being used. if it's a composition type gasket it should be installed clean and dry they're probably referring to a steel shim gasket.

No sealer required on a compositon style gasket. If you are using a steel shim, shoot them with some copper coat or some MOPAR gasket sealer.

On steel shim gaskets I always use K&W Copper Coat spray sealer.

Thanks guys... they are stock Fel Pro gaskets on a stock 69 440.. there wasnt any sealer on the originals when they came off,but I would rather be safe than sorry!