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Hello, quick check mid-project! I got this thermostat kit from one of the big two. Why am I remembering a post that said it's supposed to be a paper gasket? Is this incorrect?

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Are you asking if it must be paper? Any gasket material suitable for use with water and coolant is fine.

Thank you! That answers the question! Just hoping to do this one time this time!

The thicker cork gasket such as the one you showed can actually seal better if the surfaces are irregular so personally I prefer them.

One thing for a one time attempt is to make sure both surfaces are completely clear of the old gasket. Use a scraper and even some gritted material if you need to and get every last bit of any old stuck on gasket material off both surfaces. Also check the surfaces and particularly the thermostat side it it is one of the stamped steel housings for any pitting or rusted areas. The cast iron usually holds up to pitting better than the steel but it can still occur. If the defect is large enough the coolant will find a way to seep thru. If you find any rough areas I would also apply a thin coat of coolant friendly sealant such as non hardening Permatex or Silicone to the gasket.

Hi H.E. Penny Packard,

Just my opinion, but I would use some kind of additional gasket sealing compound with that gasket. There are numerous choices out there and everyone has their 'pet product'. I say this as when I put my new engine back together, that was the one place I had a persistent leak. Not a bad one, just a constant drop by the housing when it had been sitting overnight. Draining the antifreeze to take it apart is a pain, so to get it properly sealed the fist time is optimal. Chris