So I'm swapping out an engine in my 5 speed 2.3L 2wd. We left the trans in the truck because we don't want to deal with that sketchy clutch line. I'm doing some things to the engine while its out (t-belt, seals, etc.) The Chilton book is saying that when I change the oil pan gasket, I need to put some dabs of rtv on the corners and then loosely tighten the bolts, put the engine back in, torque the trans to the engine, and then torque the oil pan bolts. Seems kinda impossible that this all needs to happen before the rtv sets up. I know there are 2 bolts that go into the oil pan from the trans, which also is dumb, but how important is it that this procedure is followed? It seems to me that I could use a level to make sure the oil pan is plumb with the block, and that would take care of any issue of the bolts not lining up. What have you guys done / have you had any problems in the past dealing with this?

 

RTV is suppose to setup before bolts are torqued. Its not glue, its just a moldable silicone sealant. When it sets up it just turns into a gasket. As long as two surfaces come in contact with it before it sets up its fine. It just needs to be able to stick to the surfaces.