If ya check this out
http://www.dubnetworks.net/showthread.php?p=17431#post17431There are pics of a solid lifter block I'm using with a Hydro head.
There are pics of the hole in the head welded up and the coolant passage in the block that's been welded up that goes nowhere when using the metal head gasket in this application.
Covering the bolts in oil reduces the amount of friction as they are being torqued. This will result in the bolts being torqued to a higher torque value then specified/required. It can cause some serious damage such as stripped threads and snapped bolts.
Not sure about the stock VW head bolts, but the ARB's and every other head bolt for any car I've ever worked on had torque values for lubed bolts, not dry.
I was referring to stock VW head bolts, thanks for pointing that out Jim
Quick note: this is the best thread on head gaskets I've seen yet (with pictures! woot!). Thanks gents.
Andy