i do not want to digress to far off topic but while reading this i was thinking of all the gaskets and leaks i need to replace. Would you use rtv only to reseal the trans. b/c mine currently has a cork gasket and it is clearly about to/if not already disintegrating. Would you use rtv only for sealing the valve covers? So i guess what I'm really asking is: after reading this thread it seems almost everyone here is all about the PROPER application of RTV is there a situation where you would use a gasket and not RTV alone (i'm assuming you would use RTV with the gasket to get a proper seat)?
My response to this is there is a transmission gasket, it's used and trying to get that transmission pan to seal with RTV is like trying to hang wall paper with only one arm..nigh impossible.
There is just too much contamination from oil coming out of the transmission, and it's impossible to stop.
IMHO if it was me I would endeavor to find a good paper gasket for the pan, use some elephant snot AKA Permatex Aviation Form A Gasket on the pan and gasket again...this must be as clean as possible...then same a light application to the transmission and seal away. Now doing this myself I can be sure I won't have a leak, I know my procedures and what to observe, typing it onto a computer screen trying to convey skill/knowledge doesn't always work well.
I would hold the same for the valve cover except use a rubber gasket there...same procedure.
RTV and elephant snot and other hi tech stuff have a place and purpose, experiences vary for people and so does skillz and knowledge, thus what works for one member may not result in the same working for another.
JM2CW....
Al