OK to Over-torque Head Nuts?

Tried to start it (it wouldn't) and I noticed some coolant seeping out from between the block and head.

I torqued the head nuts to 55 pounds like the book says, but I wonder if I should go a little harder.

Is it best to use gasket compound on the head, or go with the clean metal gasket like I did?

I use Kopper Koat on all head gaskets. It's made for that. The spray is very convenient. Don't remember the last time I had one leak or blow after installation.

Torque consistency is more important than specific torque although you need to be around the area of design. I use an impact wrench for torqueing heads but we won't go into that again.

If you over torque the bolt, you stand a chance of breaking it which is a very big no-no. Suggest you get a torque spec for the grade and size head bolt before you over torque and remember the specified value is for a clean, dry interface of the threads. Dirty threads or oiled up slick threads put different stresses on the bolts for the indicated torque.

HTH.

Mark

I doubt that over tightening due to your oil would hurt any thing. I usually do as you do and never had a problem. But I have no idea what the difference between a new engine torqued dry and an old engine with the threads lubed up would be. Besides, how do we know that the machine bolts that are used at the mfgr. don't have a little oil on them to help keep them from rustin or as a result to their mfgr. process.

I guess you didn't break any bolts and I guess it hasn't blown up so I guess you are good to go....lotta guessin. Grin,

Mark

Contrary to what some "naysayers" say, a couple of coats of cheap aluminum spray paint, or a "Copper Kote" type of spray on the metal gasket before installation will prevent a lot of weeps, seeps, and drips!

Mark