How much should I be using? Just enough to cover the threads? Or do I need to really slop it on there? Also, what type do you recommend? Something with Teflon I would assume. Thanks!

 

Permatex with Teflon.

No need to slop it on. That stuff works best if you just run it 3/4 of the way around the threads. The rest will fill and seal as the bolt screws into the hole.

 

OOOPs! sorry! I didn't see that you were asking about head bolts. Not sure on those if they need to be assembled dry, lubed or sealed.

 

They DEFINITELY need to be sealed; they go right straight into the water jacket in the SBC.

The Permatex w Teflon is far and away the best choice. Not only is it a good sealer, but also a good lube; it helps get meaningful accurate torque readings, since it allows the bolts to turn free of friction. Just make sure you get your final torque reading with the bolt MOVING, not sitting still, and life is good. Make sure you don't over-torque em: that's FAR worse than under-torque. DO em in stages, like 35, 45, then 60; go around the heads in the order several times @ 60 and make sure they're all there; but ABSOLUTLEY DO NOT go past 65.

I put on enough to cover all the threads, and a bit under the bolt head too, as a 2nd line of leak defense. (and lube)