Basically I Dont Disagree

What I should have said in the beginning was you must let silicone set up before adding pressure. I think it says something to that affect on the package or at least I was givin that information when Tag was a pup. You are correct in saying that if all surfaces are correct you do not need anything. That is how we had to look at reassembly when all we used was grease on a gasket. In saying that, how many non mechanics will know when both surfaces are correct enough for a gasket to seal properly by its self. When that happens the market for the silly cone will disapear.
How many times have you read where someone is installing rings and does not understand what ring gap is or why it is important.

Any engine I rebuild and assemble will have silly cone on most all gaskets and on tear down you will not find where it has contaminated the inside of the engine.

I am assembling an engine at preasent and will see if I can get Dixie to took a pitcher as she would say.{:^D

so you dont need to fetch that K-mart cresent wrench next time, Hee hee.