Gasket sealant for base gasket?

[David32knyte]

Hi All
Just rebuilding the top end on 1976 Z1000 A1
I have bought an original Kawasaki base gasket as advised by members here.

Should I smear some silicone gasket sealant - Or some blue hylomar non setting type - on the gasket & mating surfaces
OR
Use the gasket dry - as Haynes manual suggests?

Also same question for the head gasket (Vesprah)

Thank you in advance

David

[warren3200gt]

I always use both dry, just remember to re torque the head after 500 miles. If a base gasket begins to leak you've virtually no chance of sealing it without another top end strip.

[zed1015]

Don't use any sealant on the base gasket.
Just apply a light coat of grease to both sides to aid settlement and ease of future removal and possible re-use.
For the head gasket this must be fitted dry with a light application of sealant fore and aft of the camchain tunnel 'O' ring.

[David32knyte]

I always use both dry, just remember to re torque the head after 500 miles. If a base gasket begins to leak you've virtually no chance of sealing it without another top end strip.

Thank you warren3200gt
I've experienced the leaky base gasket. As you say - nothing can be done once it starts leaking.
David