[tubman]

I use Fel-Pro composite gaskets, a properly prepared surface, and grease. No problem removing heads and no leaks after I got the "knack" of doing it. Sealing the studs/bolts in the block is mandatory. I always use genuine Ford bolts rather than studs to avoid the problems our friend Ken is currently having. I am exclusively an "8BA guy", but I don't see why they couldn't be used on the earlier engines.

I use aluminum aftermarket heads, and have found the clearances in the head bolt holes to be excessive, leading to alinement problems. I have heard that the manufacturers purposely make them larger to make installation and removal easier. I use a couple of pieces of aluminum tubing that fits snugly over the bolts and bore out a couple of head bolt holes to exactly fit the outside of the tubing to keep the heads in alinement. Since I have started doing this, I have had no problems with head installation. There is a little more to it than putting them on and tightening the fasteners.