I put a dab on each of the cam cap corners ~10 years ago when I did my first timing belt job and haven't used any since, and its been off a half dozen times, looks a little ragged in some areas but never leaks. Still the original early 2003 build gasket.

 

I always figured that the RTV in the VC rail valley was only to ensure that the gasket doesn't fall out when you flip the VC over to re-install. I don't think that has anything to do with oil control.

The RTV on the 6 spots yes, oil control, and agreed that it's not absolutely necessary. I do it anyway, because unlikely or not it's an easy enough insurance policy. Easy to apply, easy to remove. Don't need much. I usually apply it directly to the head rather than applying to the corners of the gasket, mostly just because that's how i've always done it over the years.

 

i would agree.

 

Where can I download that mitsu manual?

 

I just came in to see how such a simple task ends up with 50 replies.
Yah..Im bored at home, with a cold.

 

https://evoscan.com/vehicle-manuals

 

lol you never know, may help someone in the future.

 

Lol....same

 

thanks for the input all, was helpful. all wrapped up - getting the valve cover to line back up was surprisingly easy, and the only thing I noted about the process was that I needed make a few passes (at the same torque) on all the bolts to make sure everything settles evenly.

i'll let it cure for a day before i take a spin and then a quick oil change as well. need to get the car up anyway to flush the trans and t-case