Cork gasket shrinkage

[CONNOR9445]

I have an original sump gasket which has shrunk, am I correct in thinking it was common practice to soak these to regain original size?

If so, what is best way to do this - water, or oil?

I don't have any options for a new gasket unless I make one, so I'm hoping this will at least get me out of a sticky situation for a while.

Can someone confirm this method?

Thanks

Con

[USAFpj]

Con, I recently soaked (4) NOS 3/4T hub flange cork gaskets in warm water (stove top) without issue. It was my first time doing that, and before placing in water, they were brittle and would fall apart at the touch. In warm water until fully soaked, they were pliable and good-to-go. Not sure how confident I would be in using them on an oil pan, though?

[CONNOR9445]

Thanks for the reply!
I guess I give that a go tomorrow. I shall use RTV as well, I'm just hoping to get the gasket at least long enough so the bolt holes line up.

I'll try the soak and dry out as best I can, don't want to introduce water into the engine if I can help it.

Thanks