Antifreeze leak on header flange

Dicer said

I have in the past used RV sealant and worked, same sealant I used for the water pump/ timing cover bolts. I started using Teflon tape on the exhaust bolts with good results. I have found it easier to remove the bolts/studs using the tape. I think there is a trick in using the tape, I wrap the bolt making sure the tape tightens when bolt goes in. And I increase the number of wraps as you get closer to the head of the bolt.

The RV works great, but the threads must be absolutely clean and dry, no residue antifreeze left overs. Carb cleaner and air gun works if I can get to area it needs to be. They do make a liquid form of the Teflon tape, I have never used it.

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Absolutely,... Teflon tape needs to be wrapped in the right direction. Looking at the end of the bolt (threaded end), you need to wrap it clockwise. That way as you insert the bolt and tighten it, it lays down on the bolt. If you wrap it the other way, it will bunch up while you are threading it in and typically leave you with a ring of tape around the bolt right where it goes into the threads. People tend to use too much of it too. I am a process development engineer who designs manufacturing lines, so we are always building new equipment and tooling. We teflon tape all our threaded air connectors to reduce air leaks.

Teflon tape is PTFE Teflon, which has a working temperature of 500+ degrees F, and a melt temp of 620 degrees F. Considering the ends of the bolts I would be putting this on are protruding into the coolant passages as it flows by, I wouldn't think it would EVER hit those kinds of temperatures. I will tape up that bolt soon as I get a chance and see if that takes care of it. That way I don't have to worry about getting it "Dry and Clean" for the sealants to stick.

Thanks!