Technical 327 Chevrolet Oil Bypass Valve Gasket, Needed or Not?

I need some help! I'm working on a 327 Chev in a '62 Bel Air that last ran fine about 15 years ago. It has the old school canister oil filter and an AC part number 5573842 bypass valve. I'm wondering if I need to install the gasket that goes between the bypass valve and the block. When I took it apart there was no gasket but my GM shop manual calls for it. Attached is a photo so you can see what the gasket looks like. For what it's worth the gasket doesn't seem to be in much demand as I've only seen it for sale at a couple of places. Thanks in advance!

 

I always trust the manual

 

Looks easy enough to make if it came out put it back


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The strange thing is that the motor ran fine and there was no old gasket!

 

i've never used one...never any problems.

where will the oil leak to?

 

Canisters had them...screw ones didn't as I have seen them.