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This is a hotly debated topic among engine re-builders of antique machinery. Generally we recommend to put gaskets on dry without any sealer. If both surfaces are machined steel and clean then gasket sealer should not be necessary. In cases where one surface is stamped tin and one surface is machined (e.g. valves covers) then we do suggest to use gasket sealer on the stamped tin side because stamped tin can warp due to over tightening or rough treatment. We always recommend to clean surfaces throughly.