I am installing a new water pump and stat. What would be the best route to seal these. Do I use the gasket and a sealant (sealant on pump than gasket than install on timing cover) or just just sealant only.

 

be generous with the sealant! a bitch to do it again!

 

When I took the old pump off the last guy was to generous with the sealant , one of the ports was 1/3 blocked with sealant. This could been some of my overing troubles. I am still going with the new pump anyways.

 

I've always used both the gasket and the sealer and have never had any problems with leaks. In the past I've always used the Permatex Form-A-Gasket#2, but it looks like these days they have a newer product designed specifically for water pumps and thermostat housings.

http://www.permatex.com/products/Aut...one_Gasket.htm