Oil pump gasket?
 

In the past I've used the paper gaskets that come in the Fel Pro gasket sets, or the gasket that comes with the Melling oil pumps. I build an engine about once every 5 to 10 years so it's not like I really have a track record on what is the best approach. Is it better to use any particular paper gasket, a copper gasket or just go with some RTV around the edges of the sealing surface of the pump without a gasket? Thanks

Old Joe

The thin paper gaskets are just fine if you have one. If not, a very thin skim of anerobic sealer can be used. Do not use RTV in this application. RTV is not recommended between 2 machined surfaces. It depends on moisture to cure. You end up with an outside bead that can break off and get into things in the engine and the area you actually wanted to seal between the pump and block never cures.

My last build I made on from some brass .015 shim stock. Did not want to use the paper one. Used it for the template.

The super-thin gasket is my preference. No RTV, no paint or primer.

I had a slight issues with one of the slightly thicker black paper/fiber ones. On tear down it was starting to flake off around the pump base like the pump edges were cutting it.

I have made them out of foil type baking pans with a pair of scissors and and the
needed size gasket punch.

Even if you do not have a punch set a Xacto knife works and in 5 minutes and you’re done!