remote oil filter fittings tapped right into the block UPDATE in post 58 and the whole idea got 86ed

doubt very much it's cracked. plate/MINIMAL sealant/torque to 15ft-lbs, no leaks.

you are probably right, but I can NOT think of anything else that could cause this leak, so by building the remote filter setup like this, at least I can eliminate the machined sealing surface

for the center I was thinking of using the plug you would use to install the stock filter plate, with one of these attached

Aluminum F5 flare 3/4”-16UNF (Flare nut) to 1/2” barbed hose fitting