+1, I test fitted cases dry with no gasket in my '00 years ago and there was thrust clearance problems with the transmission. Use the gasket, but a light coat of Yamabond, Threebond, Hylomar, etc. on it is not a bad idea. I always use a gasket sealer on paper gaskets to avoid problems. If the new replacement center case gaskets are like other gaskets on the '12 (metalized, with a thin rubber like coating) this will not be neccessary.