Upper Oil Pan Gasket Sealer
 

It's a dumb question, but when I put the liquid RTV gasket on the upper oil pan, how long should I let it sit before installing the pan? Do I let it harden all the way or semi-harden?

Apply the sealer and install the oil pan right away. This allows the sealer to flow, even out and fill whatever needs to be filled.

I'm surprised that there are not any directions on the sealer container.

They are ... as I'm sure you're pointing out ... and deservedly so.

Right off the label from a "Power Bead" can of Permatex Ultra-black RTV Gasket Maker:

Surfaces should be clean & dry. Apply a continuous, uniform 1/16” to 1/4” bead of silicone, surrounding all bolt holes. 1/8” is suitable for most applications. Bead size may be varied by finger pressure, how quickly applicator is moved and angle. For heavier beads, nozzle may be cut to size. Activate PowerBead™ by twisting nozzle one full turn counterclockwise, raising trigger. Press trigger to dispense. Assemble parts immediately while silicone is still wet. Silicone will fully cure in 24 hours. After use, store applicator by twisting nozzle clockwise, wiping away excess silicone & replacing plastic cap with a “click”. NOTE: Not recommended for use on head gaskets or parts in contact with gasoline.

+1, but just finger tight the bolt, then wait for 20 minutes before torque down.

Sorry. That part of my tube got messed up so I couldn't read it.

Honestly, it really all depends on the material you're using.

I've got some Permatex gasket maker (maybe some older stuff) that advises that if you're creating a bead 1/8" in dia. or greater that you wait at least 10 minutes to allow the bead to "skin" before installation.

Just read your specific material's instructions (brand, type and color) and if they're not legible ... google them.

Thanks for the info. There is good info online. I should have looked there, but I also wanted to see if anyone here thought the RTV would work better from their experience a different way. A friend gave me the RTV. Its Permatex Ultra Grey but the directions on the tube were messed up. I got the info for its use online. Thanks.