Oil pan T joint sealants

[JMBT]

2012 CM2250, 855k:

I have tried several sealants on the T joints when removing the oil pan. What are you guys using and with what kind of luck?? The best luck I have had is with the Cummins spec grey silicone, but it requires a new gasket at $200 everytime I have to remove the oil pan because I can’t clean it out of the gasket grooves without damaging the gasket.. last time about a year ago I tried great white pipe dope, thinking I would be able to clean it off and reuse the gasket when I dropped the pan again. It lasted awhile but it is starting to leak at the joints.

Also, do any of you apply sealant to the whole gasket?? I am kicking around the idea this time,…looking for possible pros and cons…

I hate leaks, of any kind, even small ones!

Thanks, And Merry Christmas to you all!! JMBT