If Keith Craft's shop is any indicator, there seems to be some argument in favor of being able to prevent some
oil leaks by sealing the exterior of the gasket after assembly. On my motor they went completely around the
oil pan (maybe other locations too - didn't notice) and applied a small ribbon of black RTV over the edge of the gasket. I would guess they had more in mind than just cosmetics. I would not have figured trying to stop a leak from the exterior would be successful but maybe so.
