it is pretty annoying to spread but I had to take the top fittings off three times and that paste was still good. I'm not going to use it on everything but I'd say it's about equal with the tape. haven't tried rtv on fittings yet.
I'll have to try that
It's not good for high heat. I've seen it harden and flake off.......even in non heat applications. It's just personal preference, I don't like the stuff. lol