Use no sealant on the ends of the neoprene seals. The rope is used to pack into the 2 round holes between the main cap and the block. Pack it tight as that is the seal to keep oil from leaking out the sides. Use GASGACINCH, bought at any NAPA store. Put a coat on the oil pan and a coat on the side of the gasket that will go on the pan, and be careful when you put the gasket on the pan as once it touches it's glued. Make sure you install the round rubber seal on the oil pan pick up tube that goes into the block, above the gasket. Then tie all front oil pan holes with string so you will not move the gasket out of place. Walt.