Engine is 3.4l LNJ ("vin F"). What, if anything, goes on the head bolt threads prior to installation? I ask because of conflicting /confusing information. Bought new headbolts not OEM, from RockAuto, and there'* no coating on them.....but I would swear that I read _somewhere legit_ that new GM headbolts come coated with either a sealant or threadlocker "patch". Both Alldata and Mitchell mention not re-using the old bolts but give no further details. Haynes same, Since none of the bolts go into a water jacket I don't think they need sealer ....maybe light coat of motor oil like on all other head gasket jobs I've done? Would appreciate a knowledgable response, thank you.

Head bolts do not need thread locker. Use new as they are torque to yield.

Clean and dry.

Oil changes the effective torque specification, then carbons up in the threads and makes next removal difficult or impossible.

No thread locker etc.

Torque to yield bolts are one-time use. Don't re-use. Heck, while we're here, in the olden days before TTY bolts were a thing, you could often re-use . . . but why do that when you are that far into the engine both physically and financially? Cheap to replace the bolts while you're there.

@CathedralCub: LOL Eventually, clean and dry is what I went with.....AFTER setting the heads, lightly oiling the bolts and getting them 'finger-tight'- I had second thoughts on my second thoughts. Took it all apart again ,re- cleaned all the bolt-holes etc, re-set heads and torqued proper.. I am not a fan of re-work so if it'* new head gasket time then new head bolts are automatically part of the 'menu'.
Thank you for taking the time to make a considered reply.

PS I'm going to start a new thread w/some disquieting (to me) photos I took of my engine block. ( When I get the post up) would you mind taking a quick look and tell me what you think? I would appreciate it. Title w/b something like "look and say it isn't so" or something similar....TY!

Good call!

Yep, will do!