Do ya have a shop manual? For the record, what year model is the car/ engine?
"Liberal amount" may be your problem, and what exactly are you using for sealer? Some sealers, when applied too heavy, can actually act as a LUBRICANT. (Permatex is a brand name, like General Motors, and does NOT tell us what you are using)
I use Permatex "the red stuff" forgot the exact name, EDIT either "high tack" or "Super 300" It's RED. It's more of a contact cement. Put A LITTLE on the cover and gasket, with the bolts in place, and glue the gasket to the cover. Put a little on the other side of the gasket and the engine, allow to get tacky, and install the cover. After tightening down, see below.......
Also, in your situation, I would NOT use either the front pan gasket, nor would I use either the front or rear intake gaskets. After installing the cover, use a BIG bead of silicone to seal the cover to the pan, after getting both ABSOLUTELY clean!!!
Same deal on the front/ rear gaskets for the intake. Don't use em............lay a big bead of silicone, and smooth it with your finger or a rag/ towel after snugging down the intake. INSPECT these beads with a flashlight and mirror to be sure they are sealed. Let the engine sit a day if you can, to cure.
