Basically the title - I replaced the front three studs going from the front timing cover to the oil pan with bolts (so much easier, what an upgrade) but now have a wee bit of seepage from one of them. Makes sense I suppose as the bolt holes are through holes instead of blind like the rest of the sump pan bolts. Question is - should I put some kind of sealant on the threads to prevent leaking? It's just a whisper of oil around one of the bolt heads.

 

Yes, rtv silicone

 

I’m assuming it just needs a really thin film so it doesn’t mess with the torque, right?

 

Install wet, it will act as a lubricant. I use rtv on almost all bolts as loctite. Eliminates rust, loosening, and assures full clamping force.