Head Bolt Lubricant

[Harry]

The BBB says to use a "graphite oil" on the head bolts before reinstalling.  What type/brand of oil has been used on the Forum for this purpose?

Harry

[ja17]

I've been mixing fine graphite powder (as used in locks) with std. motor oil for head bolts for many years. Engine assembly lubricant should also work ok, in fact some brands have graphite added to them. A good synthetic oil by itself is most likely adequate also.

[Harry]

Thanks Joe!

[ja17]

The most important thing is clean the head bolt threads and clean the threads in the block with a tap. Blow the holes out clean after chasing the threads. Never put the bolts back in with dry threads. Lubrication under the bolt head and the washer also.

[MikeSimon]

For years, I have used a Molybdenum Disulfate product - commonly known as "Moly" by various sources - during all my engine assemblies.
Until my involvement with one of the race teams introduced me to a product designed and manufactured for that specific process - performance engine assembly.
This is a graphite based lubricant and comes in an aerosol spray and a paste.

[Harry]

I built an AC Cobra a few years ago using ARP bolts.  ARP offered a fastener lubricant that I used.  Where do you find the molybdenum product?

[MikeSimon]

The "Moly" - MoS2- comes in a variety of forms, spray, oil, paste, whatever your preference is. Any good car parts store should have one. Advance Auto Parts does, and you can buy it on-line. I sued to get mine at a motorcycle sthop.

[Harry]

Thanks again.

[Harry]

Well, can’t find the moly locally.  Probably overthinking it, as usual.  Wonder if anti-seize is also a good application?  I an certainly go with the synthetic oil.