I recently purchased a new water pump and was wondering if I need some type of gasket sealer when putting the new one on the block.

Also is it normal for water pumps to have two gaskets with a slim metal insert between the two?

 

I usually use a bit of sealer, a THIN coating, just to help it seal more easily. And yes, water pumps that have a metal backing plate(so it can better control flow) have a gasket between the plate and pump, and then a gasket between the plate and timing cover(if that's what you're talking about)

 

+1 I allways put a small bead of the red rtv stuff, let it set for about 5 minutes and then stick her together..

 

great, thanks for the replys guys