2.2L engine reassembly

[bobolsn]

I have a 2.2L (71T) engine that I am reassembling that will be a driver. Most parts have been to a machine shop (Ollie’s or a local) or are new (bearings, intermediate sprockets, rings, valves, springs, etc.). The engine case was put together several years ago (Loctite 574). I have experienced a resurgence to get the car done. I was having a problem getting the rocker shafts into the cam bores and was doing some research when I found the tread on sealants which brought up questions as to my past work. Sent cams to Ollie’s and can put shafts into bores. I will have many more questions (cam timing, rocker shaft bolt torque, etc.), but the questions I have right now are:

1) I did not put sealant (574 or any other) on the crank shaft webs. Just on the outer case. I know Henry recommends sealant (for shear strength), but have read some posts that say it is OK not to. I know there are many opinions, but I really would prefer not taking the case apart again. Suggestions?

2) I did not put a sealant on the copper cylinder base gaskets and I want to minimize oil leakage. As the below picture shows I put the cylinders and heads on but have not torque them (hand tight). I can take the heads off and raise the cylinders to clean the case base, cylinder base and the copper gasket. Then I could put Curil T on and button them up. With them on (just raised) I probably can’t clean as well as with them off. I sort of have resigned myself to the fact that I will take them off, clean and seal. I have read the Curil T does not harden, but how much time do I have to complete the task of putting them on and torque the heads/cams down? The technique I use is to put each head on and then the cam tower.

3) Again reading the sealant thread, I am pretty sure I did not put Dow 111 on the thru bolt O-rings. I have read that you can take one bolt out at a time and replace without compromising the case seal. Is this OK? I also read that one side of the case (4-5-6 side) did not have chamfers on the case for the o-rings. Any special care for the 4-5-6 side?




If you see anything in the picture (or would like other pictures) do not hesitate to speak up.

Thanks

Bob