I used just paper for years.Then it seems the gaskets got cheaper.I installed thousands at work in 30 years.Water pumps also.I use the brown Permatex in the tube.Just a light coat.They seal.My 440 has the dreaded chrome housing.It never leaks and has been on for 12 years.Just use the non hardening stuff.When you do them for a living you dont want one coming back for a leak.Rocky