Thanks guys. Yeah, I think the MB 003 989 98 20 10 I posted above is the black stuff you mentioned. I'm not for sure it's an aneorobic, but it says it's for metal-metal use, which would indicate it is.
One issue I have with using aneorobic sealant is: it will not bridge a gap of more than about 0.010 or so, and the interface with the oil pan gasket/block is pretty large - just about the same scenario as the upper timing cover where it joins the head gasket.

So, will the aneorobic work in the "cracks" along the pan gasket/block interface, or should I dab a little RTV stuff in there?

Tks,
DG

p.s. I may need to retire 'Ol Pearl due to old age - not her's, but mine!
I was sealing up the timing cover last week, and decided to install the cover, then press the radial cam seal in (touchy but doable).
I knocked the old seal out on the bench, did a great job of installing the cover; and then grabbed the radial seal, and it went in soooo easy and smooth!
Danced around the garage celebrating, then walked over and FOUND THE NEW SEAL STILL LYING ON THE WORKBENCH. Oh, well, it finally all ended well.