904 Trans Struggle Bus

I'm nobody's idea of an expert, but...

When I do an oil pan, trans pan, or valve cover gasket first thing after cleanup is set the pan flange on a 2x4 or 2x6 laid long ways on edge, exterior facing down. An extra set of hands helps a lot here. Then take about an 6" long piece of 1/2" wooden dowel and GENTLY tap with a hammer to flatten the bolt holes so it will seal. You are flattening from the inside, and gorillas need not apply for this job.

To tighten on install, don't use a 3/8 torque wrench set at 10#. Those settings are too coarse down that low - use a 1/4" drive using the correct inch pounds. Watch the gasket as you snug it down. The most it should do is VERY SLIGHTLY pooch out at the bolt holes.