I've pulled stock gaskets as high up as 200ish. They deform and look like crap..but actually leak and cause issues...that's not quite as common as how bad they look.
I use white teflon paste on the threads of cleaned LIM bolts. GM at some point put thread locker in the FSM, but all it's doing is sealing the bolts. I'd prefer the proper tool. As well with the original plastic only gasket the torque spec was 11ft lbs, when steel inserts were added around the bolt holes the spec moved up to 13ft lbs. I never looked for a new spec, however when I do aluminum gaskets.... 15ft lbs automatically. I've never had one leak.
I learned about the bolts from cleaning them and having them leak when assembled clean. Buddy is a tech at a GM dealership and they all use the pipe sealant with PTFE, aka liquid teflon. So yes..I clean all the bolts and use that on all the jobs I do.
It's a shame you are a million miles from 06082, I'd give you a hand...just to prove your buddies wrong.
