2010 Explorer 4.0 SOHC driveway timing chain change, gasket question

[js11801]

I am replacing the front timing chains with the engine still in the vehicle, in my driveway. The upper front cassette broke.

The tear down went well, and I am about to order parts including the timing kit, and gaskets: valve covers, lower oil pan, intake manifold and timing chain cover.

All the other gaskets are easy, but the gasket between the upper oil pan and the bottom of the timing chain cover (and engine block) is not.
I would have to drop the upper oil pan, which seems near impossible in the vehicle.

What's the consensus on just leaving the upper oil pan gasket in place as it looks fine?

Yes, the right thing to do is to change it, but that seems beyond my skill. Can I get away not? It is a metal gasket so I suspect permitex is not a solution.

Thanks in advance.
John

 

[donalds]

Leave it

 

[Bekoatvb]

I agree with donalds, leave it. Now keep in mind I am pure shade tree, but for many years and many repairs. Metal gasket does eliminate gasket making material, just apply past the edge of the "in place gasket" to get a seal on top and bottom.

 

[js11801]

I agree with donalds, leave it. Now keep in mind I am pure shade tree, but for many years and many repairs. Metal gasket does eliminate gasket making material, just apply past the edge of the "in place gasket" to get a seal on top and bottom.

Thank you both. Did the job, no leaks after as far as I can tell. (It has another issue that prevents me from driving it at the moment.
I did run a thin bead of permitex black behind the gasket (on the inside of the edge) to give a little more assurance and not raise the cover higher than it used to be.