Wanted to ask this question on the general forum...

After the seal retainer is properly aligned and torqued in place, do you then force the RTV or silicone (from the tube) into the side seal area from the small opening at the pan rail surface? And then, per John K. and Mitch, insert a ~2 3/4" piece of damp pipe cleaner into the same opening?
Is the adhesive silicone preferred over RTV?

Thanks. I've only used the old cardboard or rubber side seals and wanted to try this method.
-Mike

I use the stock side seals, make sure they are all the way in and are touching the block were the main seal holder seats I then use adhesive silicone and a putty knife to fill the main seal holder against the block on the crankshaft flange side including both sides of the bottom of the seal holder
No pipe cleaners used by me

Many retainers have a larger gap on one side than teh other. Therfore I don't use side seals. Fill the grooves with Ultra Grey RTV before installing the main seal retainer. Then squesze a little additional in at the top of the groove. Fill the retainer bolt recesses as well. Not all gaskets and pans fully cover that area. Have never had a rear main leak.
Doug

I did similar, only I would add that when I assembled without the side seals like mentioned but dry. Once retainer is installed to fill the sides I used a luer lock syringe and 12ga blunt needle. Worked like a charm to fill up the side seal gaps. Used "Right Stuff" sealant.

The moisture in the pipe cleaner helps the silicone cure properly.

Myself, I don't use anything. never had a leak either. But will admit I never put oil in them 🤣