Just wondering which of these bolts need sealing, and if simple silicon will work okay?

Whoops, almost forgot, it's a small block (318).

It would be the bolts above and below the water passages in the timing cover (maybe not all 4 of them, can't recall). You can shine a flashlight in the bolt holes, if there is "no bottom", not blind, then you need RTV. Yes, a coating of RTV on the bolt threads should be fine.

I've used anti-seize compound on the water pump bolt threads with great results.

Just seal all but the top center bolt and you'll be leak free.

Don't forget you need to mount the power steering and alternator bracket under some of the water pump bolt heads before you tighten them.

Yea, I thought it would be all but the top, as I have water coming out of some and oil out of others. Thanks!

one of the fuel pump bolts needs RTV, it goes through into oil.

if theyre tight, thery dont leak but thread sealant is recommended. I used it for the first time on this recent build. i only used it cause people said to- not because I ever had trouble with them leaking. same with exhaust studs

Use aircraft sealer. The thick black goopy stuff. Seals better than RTV and easier to clean off when removed.

How about this same question on an RB (440)? Are any of the "front-end" bolts wet with oil or water?

Thanks,
Darren

Anyone for the 440?

Thanks,
Darren

Yes the 4 bolts for the water pump housing are wet. Use some sealer.

Okay, it's back together and not leaking. That's for all the replys!