Wanted to take off and try cleaning out, do I need a real gasket or can I just use the RTV sealant stuff? Or both? Thanks

 

You could probably use the gasket again if it doesn't get buggered when you remove it.

I did this until I rebuilt the engine, then sprung for a new gasket, a couple of bucks if memory serves.

 

Make the gasket! Thats what I did!

 

So I should just buy a sheet of the gasket material, should I also use the RTV sealant with the gasket?

While we are on the subject just got an OEM thermostat which came with a gasket, do I need to use RTV sealant on that also or is the gasket alone enough?

Never changed either so I'd appreciate the answers, thanks.

 

I would use no cement on the BAC gasket, but would use some on the thermostat gasket.

 

Just changed the thermostat. No sealant used and bone dry. If you put the gasket in right it should seal properly.

 

Sorry, mind fart. I made a thermostat out of a three letter acronym.