2.3L thermostat housing - use gasket + sealant, or just gasket?

[bbb0777]

On the 2.3L thermostat housing - should I use the gasket alone to seal it to the engine, or the gasket + RTV silicone material?

I have several proper gaskets, plus the RTV silicone material already. Just not sure whether to use the RTV too is advisable or not. Thanks,

 

[Andy D]

After a near miss with blue RTV, I went back to Aviation Forma- Gasket #2 goop. I use it wherever steel aluminum and coolant are present.Put down a coat, let it skim over. Put the gasket on I also goop the bolts and the holes. It isn't for leaks, it prevents the bond from dis-similar metals. Some engines waterpump bolts go into the water jackets. Itsa Jeep thing, we wouldn't understand.

 

[enjr44]

I like permatex #2 on the gasket and anti-seize on the bolts.

 

[hntr45]

You should probably use the gasket and RTV just to be safe. Blue RTV worked perfectly for me.

 

[black_demon69]

weather strip cement on housing then stick gasket to it . DON'T PUT WEATHER STRIP CEMENT ON BLOCK YOU WILL HAVE A HARD TIME CLEANING BLOCK NEXT TIME....

 

[Dprocks100]

I've always just used the gasket and blue rtv. Never had a problem leaking or cleaning it off my 2.3. Done it 4 times now.

 

[Turbroke]

I've always just used the gasket and blue rtv. Never had a problem leaking or cleaning it off my 2.3. Done it 4 times now.

Like he said...works every time.

 

[RedRanger69]

Wish I could find a new thermostat housing for mine so I could change it out.