both sides, thin layer. and also i would just for kicks, put a thin layer on the housing stem where the hose will be sittin so maybe it will help with sealing in case the clamps need a little help

 

Cool, sounds like a good idea. Thanks man!

 

no problem, hope all goes well

 

Do not use silicon on the hose or on the thermostat housing where the hose goes. This can encourage leaks and get silicon into the cooling system. A thin layer on both sides of the paper gasket is all thats needed. Some thermostat gaskets come with adhesive on one side covered with white paper remove this paper before applying the RTV. I would not use cork for this gasket.

 

your crazy merc thats all i gotta say. it wont hurt nothin havin a little rtv on the housing to help seal where the clamps are.

 

Back to the AC when using heat:

The AC will cycle in all settings except just front vents and just feet vents. This means the bi-level, the bi-level with def, and just def. It's so the moisture gets removed. Why it runs during bi-level face and feet is beyond me but it probably comes from the old days of "recirc" settings. Boy, I'm old if I remember that...

 

If you want to get personal take it to pm's.

There are place's that rtv, thread sealant, pipe dope, thread tape are to be used and not used. A rubber hose going onto any metal/plastic fitting barbed or not should be done dry to achieve best sealing properties. Scuff and clean the metal part but don't use any sealant.

 

I do tend to use bi-level airflow, so I'll have to switch to only dash vents and see if I hear the clutch engage.

Thanks for your input!

 

I tried this out yesterday, and you are 100% right - my AC clutch hasn't engaged once with only the dash vents selected. Thanks for the input!

 

You're welcome!