Very interesting - the rule is based on the exceptions.
Of course, this means discarding almost all of the recommended torque values in every service manual, hardware manufacturer's application charts, engineering guidelines, etc. in which higher values are invariably shown for 1/4-20 vs. 1/4-28, 1/2-13 vs. 12/-20, etc.
Too bad they didn't ask you before they did all that work.
I believe you have me confused with another contributor to this thread. My contribution was in regards to the use of an additional sealant with the head gasket or not using a sealant. A choice that remains with the person doing the assembling of course. It had nothing to do with torque values for any of the fasteners you mentioned nor any of the fasteners involved in the original posters project.
You might want to reread the posts and direct your sarcasm to the party intended.
