I replaced it I put rtv on both sides I removed old gasket on the block and on the neck. I applied correct torque (15 ft. lbs) and I waited 24 hours for the RTV to cure. I start it up and let it idle and there is a small leak that started. I mean it seems pretty small but makes me feel like gasket will break open if I drive it. Jesus what did I do wrong? We can never have nice things no matter how in depth we go in by the book when replacing something.

 

The t-stat housing itself may be bad/cracked. Get a new housing, another new gasket and try it again. 15 lbs sounds a bit much, presuming both surfaces are clean and perfectly flat, just snug on the bolts should be good. Too tight on irregular surface just squeezes out the RTV/cuts the gasket.

 

yea just hand tighten the bolts down with a socket in hand not on the ratchet.