Changin vtec gasket questions

[98civex]

Do both mating surfaces, block/solenoid need to be completely clean/dry? With something like brake cleaner or just simply wiped down with a rag?

Should you lightly coat the new gaskets with oil upon installation or no?

I've read conflicting answers to both those questions in various threads so I'm a little confused on the proper procedure

 

[lethal6]

When ever you are putting a gasket on anything, both surfaces need to be clean.

 

[98civex]

So I changed the gasket on Saturday and today I feel around and my fingers are soaked with oil, primarily under the solenoid block side.

Bad gasket? Why would it be leaking again?

 

[98civex]

Weird thing is I checked everyday since then and there wasn't any leaks. Somehow today there is?

 

[tirivn18]

If its leaking id say get a new gasket and when your putting the new one on spray brake clean on a rag and clean both surfaces. i use RTV on my VC gaskets and it works great. i dont remember if the vtec solenoid gasket is rubber or not but you can buy gasket silicones at autozone that will help it seat and seal properly