There are two grooves. The front one is to catch oil and return it back to the pan through the drain hole in the cap. The rear groove is where the seat goes.
Wick/rope same same.
Some disagree but I like Neoprene seals on an engine that does not use shims.
If you decide to use a rope seal get a Best Gasket seal. They are easy to cut the ends.
I would sure like to know how Fel-Pro for example expects you to cut theirs.


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