Paper Gaskets and Gasket Sealants (not RTV) Options

[Syaoran]

I want your opinions on using these. I've seen builds that use paper gaskets perfectly fine and others that use metal gaskets. I'm specifically referring the the gaskets under the oil pump, water pump and rear main seal. Is there really that much of a difference on using a metal gasket (if applicable) and a paper gasket with a non-hardening sealant such as Permatex Super 300?

[Tigawoods]

Replacements gaskets I have gotten for those seals have all been Toyota Brand and all metal. I think its a personal preference kind of situation. I haven't had any terrible experiences with paper gaskets, but I have heard of some who did.

Are you just looking for general information on the differences or are you currently making a decision for your build as to which gasket you will use?

[Syaoran]

Replacements gaskets I have gotten for those seals have all been Toyota Brand and all metal. I think its a personal preference kind of situation. I haven't had any terrible experiences with paper gaskets, but I have heard of some who did.

Are you just looking for general information on the differences or are you currently making a decision for your build as to which gasket you will use?

I want to buy a Cometic head gasket for my build. If I do that, it's not cost-effective to buy an OEM gasket set. Replacement gasket sets are cheaper even when they are know quality replacements like Top Line, Victor Reinz and Felpro. Thing is I can get a replacement set from my dealer for much less than $219 which is what the OEM set costs, not including tax.

I've been looking on different places on the internet including eBay and most replacement kits come with paper gaskets, so it brought that question up for me.

yes the OEM gasket for these is metal

Yeah that's what I've noticed from searching for an Aisin water pump. They include the metal gasket. Aisin oil pumps don't include either crank seal or metal gasket though.