How bad is it?

slimjim said
Moper, pins at the end of the block valley? Not quite sure what you mean. The surface where the cork gasket would go is completely flat. I am definitely going to use water only tonight when I fire it up. Dukeboy 318- I did get a new gasket. The way I worded that sentence was incorrect, sorry. Oh and Inkjunkie, I didn't even know that there was a cooling system pressure tester. I don't have access to one now but I have a feeling that would come in handy later on in life.

Go rent one from the local auto parts chain. It's worth it.

and I'm surprised no one has said anything about maybe the intake being warped at the rear of the engine or bolt stretch. Those could also cause improper manifold seating

and you see the stupid lil hole in the front of the engine and the one right by where the dizzy goes?

That's where the dowel pins would be. make sure they are long gone otherwise you may end up having some problems.