[Madman Stephan]

So here I am, last night, removing the passenger side header off of the small block, when all of of sudden, as I removed the bolt furthest on the right, engine coolant starts pouring out. Usually, the left-most and right-most fasteners are studs, but in this case someone installed bolts. So my question is, is it normal for coolant to be pouring out of that hole, or did someone tap just a little too deep?

[dave-r]

Yes that is normal. It is important that when you install the studs or header bolts you use sealer on the threads to prevent water leaking out.

[Madman Stephan]

Thanks Dave! Now, should I expect the same thing on the driver's side? If so, would it also be from the bolt closest to the rad?

[Joel]

I don't remember coolant running out of the of the hole when I remove the header bolts, then again I also drained the coolant system first, because I was removing the engine out of my car. Oh well, I suppose I can just keep this in mind if I have to remove the headers in the future, eh.

[dave-r]

It has been so many years since I owned a small block I really do not know if all or just a few of the studs are into the water jacket. The end ones do I am sure because there is a core plug right next to the stud.

I do know that all the studs on a big block engine go into the water so they all have to be sealed.

[jen]

It will be the first bolt and the last bolt on both sides.