The 2176 doesn't have the holes for the pins, so if his pins were still in there it would be huge gaps.
I appreciate your insight and will definitely apply those methods.
It won't run as good as it could, and may discolor your aluminum more.
It may also make those cylinders run lean because of the leak.
As tempting as it would be, I wouldn't run it like that.
BTW, I ran the metal gaskets with a 2176 and iron heads for 3-4 years with zero issue's but that doesn't mean it will work like that on every other motor.
It looks like you need the forgiveness of the thicker composite gaskets (Felpro's)
I may be saying this for nothing, but sealing the intake bolt threads is a really good idea to keep engine oil from coming up around the bolts and getting all over your intake.
AND oil can get between the intake gaskets and intake also coming up on your intake.
It's a bit of a pain to clean up, but sealing between the bolt heads and intake makes a big difference.
A sharp pointed tool and a small wire toothbrush type brush works great to get the extra off around the bolt heads/washers after the RTV has set up.