Sealant on water pump gasket?

[BirdDog]

Originally Posted by Doug427

I’ve seen posts both ways. Install dry or with sealant. If with sealant what type? Seal the bolt threads? Do the bolts hit water?
Thanks.

No, no, no! No sealant! Just torque to proper spec (8 ft-lbs I think, but double check me on that) with a new (metal) gasket. If your water pump is original, you'll have to cut the old gasket to remove it. New gasket will also have a section you'll need to remove.

I have no advice about bolt thread sealer. I didn't use it when I installed mine. I don't remember the bolts seeing water...

Hope this helps...