Ok, this may be a stupid question.... What do you use with paper gaskets to get a good seal i.e. timing cover, water pump t-stat? I have used RTV with these gaskets but if I am using RTV, then whats the point of the gasket? I tried some sort of tack seal for paper gaskets and it was crap. I also heard a rumor that if you use RTV with a paper gasket, the gasket can get soaked with oil and separate from the RTV and actually move between the thin layer of RTV during heating and cooling, which causes leaks. Any thoughts?

A light coat of gasket sealer, gasket cinch, etc. I use Permatex Gasket sealer: Aviation Form-a-gasket http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductD...egoryCode=2132 .

I've never used sealant on paper gaskets.
With flat surfaces and proper torqueing you should have no need for it.

I agree with Viprklr.
I don't use anything with them either.

I put a skim coat of RTV on them.

With flat, smooth surfaces and proper torquing you shouldn't need a gasket.

I only use sealant as a glue to hold paper gaskets in place. Just a dab or two.

On a side note I prefer to use "Reusable" gaskets on thermostat housings. I have seen these seal more reliably and you can play with your thermostat temp until you get it right without replacing the gasket over and over.

So just use the paper gasket by itself? No sealant or gasket dressing?

I do the opposite for the "paper gasket" areas, ie water pump, timing cover, -- no paper gasket, just Permatex Right Stuff. If it's good enough for modern OE's, it's good enough for me. Plus it makes setting thrust button clearance easier w/ retrofit roller cams, if you don't have to factor in timing cover gasket squish.