Changing 4.4 VCG -how common are timing case cover leaks?

[absentmathis]

I'm currently halfway through a VCG job on this 4.4, and wondering if the timing case gasket(s) are the real failure. The leak appears to be right at the front corner where that joint is...common failure? Looks like a lot more trouble to replace them, and this car is just a flipper for me so any input?

On a side note, one of the VCG metal washers dropped right in a cylinder hole and wedged perfectly on top of the spark plug. I ended up having to smash a magnet in half to get it in there and lift it out. Hate to say it but that little faux pa cost me a few days.