Self-sealing transmission pan bolts?

[attofarad]

The service manual calls for replacing transmission pan bolts whenever removed, since they are "self-sealing"

What are they sealing? Are the bolt holes drilled all the way through into the case, such that fluid would leak down the threads?

If not, the gasket should prevent any leaks, as it surrounds each bolt hole.

If so, is there something like gasket Permatex or some such that can be used instead of replacing the bolts?

[rioredstang]

Yes they are self-sealing. You can use a anaerobic sealer to reseal threads. Clean bolts and trans threads very good.Permetex makes a anaerobic sealer. I use sealer from GM dealer.