II finally got around to replacing the passenger side valve cover gasket on my 1989 Ford Ranger. I was shocked to see that the cylinder head mating surface appared to look defective. It wasn'r flush. I don't know how this could have made it by inspection when it was manufactured. Has anyone else ever seen this and what is the best way to rectify it? It appears that the mating surface isn't flat and has noticeable ridge on the surface.

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Actually, it's the mating between the intake manifold and the cylinder head that is creating the mismatch. I have no idea how the valve cover can get a good seal with this mismatch.

That's pretty much normal. A little dab of rtv in that spot on the front & rear will suffice.
Felpro makes a nice set of re-usable gaskets for this application as well.

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Ranger #1 2007 S/C 4.0L 5 spd manual


Ranger #2 1991 R/C Lwb Built 4.0L OHV 5 spd
Runs 14.3's at 94 mph N/A & 13.4's @ 101 mph giggling!

Thanks for responding so quick. Fortunately, I just found that out and I just finished putting it back together. Just have to look at my photos of the wiring harness in order to remember where all the wires go. Thanks again.