Valve Cover Gasket

I am about to replace the valve cover gasket, has anyone fitted the OEM part recently? I've heard stories that they don't fit very well, though this doesn't seem to make sense, if that's the case has anyone any experience of Ajusa gaskets i.e. are they any good?

Failing that, I'd appreciate recommendations for other suitable quality aftermarket gasket manufacturers (available in the UK).

One more thing, (admittedly I haven't had a detailed look at the procedure in the workshop manual yet) is there a correct sequence for tightening the cover bolts when re-fitting? It seems like there ought to be.

 

Great, thanks I’ll use this method building to torque spec.

Thanks to everyone who replied re the aftermarket gasket issue. I’ve gone ahead and ordered the Ajusa as it definitely comes with replacement gaskets for the centre bolts, is manufactured in Spain and most importantly…doesn’t come from China!

I’m also gonna add a dab of gasket maker sealant where the timing chain case meets the main body at front and back as this seems to be a good idea.

 

This is great, thank-you so much for posting this excellent resource - it'll help me out a great deal, and even has torque specs for the coil pack bolts (I always prefer to tighten nuts and bolts precisely) which is a bonus.

The Haynes Repair Manual I have does not include a specific sequence however having one, I would say, increases the likelihood of success for this job.

 

This guy had a bit of trouble with his Toyota gasket (he goes on about it for about a minute 13.25-14.25ish):

 

I hear ya - that’s what I’m afraid of, over-tightening. I always use the Nm units, partly because the car is metric spec but mostly because I’m simply more familiar with this measure. If I don’t have the Newton metre value I tend to use the Converter app to change it just so I’ve got a fair idea of what kind of force to expect.