Do the head gaskets need sealed? I have heard of folks who don't, and some say to seal with high temp silicone around water jackets and others say to use the Super Yellow "Gorilla Snot" to seal them......what gives? Any suggestions?

 

The gasket manufacturer knows best in this case. Follow directions included (if included).

In general, composition gaskets don't need anything. I used FelPro rubber coated steel shim types when I put the 305 back together, they said have a 50 RMS finish on deck & head or use sealant. I sprayed them with aluminum paint, seem to be sealing fine.

 

i use K&W copper spray sealer on head gaskets, i most always have the block and head surface redone at machine shop and it's not as smooth as factory, never had a leak.

 

Always consult the manufacturer, but a rule of thumb is coated gaskets - no sealer, uncoated - copper spray. "Gorrilla Snot" (weatherstrip adhesive) won't hold up under the heat at the head area.

 

Dragula,
I see that you have AFR 190 heads, I have the same and the best gasket is Fel-Pro p/n 1010. These do not require any type of sealant. They are about $35 a piece and worth it.
Also pick up some thread sealant from ARP with their bolts. Works like a charm. Also double check your pushrod guideplates with the AFR's. My #1 was put on wrong by AFR, so when I was sealing the rocket studs I flipped it and made sure all the others were correct.

 

Already got the suckers on. I got the recommended FelPros. Can't remember the number, but they are the ones AFR recommended. I just stuck 'em on and torqued it down (with sealant on the bolts of course). I will seal the studs when I get the pushrods on loosely in order to align the guideplates. I'll send out some pics of the engine maybe tonight. I got the intake and everything on now too.

 

AWESOME BUDDY!!