I have found a thin coat of Permatex #2 on both sides of the gasket to be very effective. Squeeze a small bead around the gasket, then smear and pat it around with your finger, so it is evenly coated. Same on both sides, use a piece of wax paper when you flip the gasket over, or just regular paper works too. Clean and dry the mating surfaces and install. Also use #2 on the threads of the bolts to seal them.

Grigg

•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
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"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-