X2 on the "everybody does it different". I think one of the reasons for that is that everybody has valve covers that are in different states of repair. If you have a good valve cover that has never been overtightened or abused, very little RTV should be needed. What I have always had good luck with is wiping both surfaces down real good with laquer thinner, then using blue Permatex on the valve cover, letting it set up until it's tacky, and then putting a rubber gasket on the valve cover. They have little "ears" that snap into the cover edge to hold them in place. I then let that set up for a few more minutes, and put it on the motor. Flip your tension wings over, so they are arched up, then tighten your bolts to 7 foot pounds. The only torque wrench I have that will go that low is a beam style, and it's a pain to use, but not overtightening them is the key to them not leaking.