Modern gaskets in an old school world

[Ghoste]

Somewhat wanting to know what the professional and frequent engine builders do with today as far as gaskets.  To my mind, a gasket is a gasket and you put them on dry and clean and you should be good to go but maybe not?  Are they made any differently now than 40 years ago?  And I know some have changed such as head gaskets but do guys now still just install them as is, use a bead of rtv for insurance, just some spray on tack or what?
Does it change the fact that I'm asking in a forum where the parts are principally new or at least as cleann as new?  What about changing used parts, for instance if you just pull an oil pan to inspect?

[John_Kunkel]

The common argument against using sealer on gaskets is "the factory put 'em on dry and they didn't leak" but the parts were new then, after a few off/on cycles the mating surfaces may not be flat anymore.

I use Coppercoat spray on head gaskets and a thin film of RTV on composite gaskets; might be unnecessary but I don't like leaks. (a "belt and suspenders" approach)

[Ghoste]

Which is exactl what stopped me this morning John.  I had that, "factory" thought in mind and then thought about the fact it isn't a new part.  Thanks.

[Dino]

I still have at least two valve cover leaks after installing new gaskets.  I think they are rubber/cork.  I glued them to the cheapo chrome valve covers with ultra copper so I may have to do the same between gaskets and heads.  If I tighten these bolts any more they will likely snap.

[c00nhunterjoe]

If it is a machined surface, then you shouldnt need rtv.

If it an "as cast" surface, then you should use rtv.

Just my 

[Ghoste]

That makes sense.