I always let the new gasket do its job and rarely ever put goop on a new gasket. Make sure the surfaces are clean and free of any slithers of old gasket. Tighten bolts gradually in an even pattern and to the correct torque if specified I have sometimes used a strategicly placed dob of goop or a touch of super glue to hold a gasket in place when fitting in a hard to access position.
I would suggest following the instructions in the workshop manual. The problem with adding goop is that you may end up with stuff breaking off and blocking oil galleries before it reaches the filter.
Goop can also cause rubber gaskets to become slippery and when applied to rubber sump gaskets that have a reasonable amount of compression, you can sometimes find the gasket trying to slip out of the joint as you tighten the bolts
Thanks everyone for help. Since it's a new sump pan and surfaces look really clean I'll forgo any goop. I've got the motor hanging off block and tackle 2 feet above cabin sole so access is good. Thanks again!
