stinking water neck driving me crazy

Are we talking about a Ford small block? If so, make sure the thermostat gets seated properly before you tighten the housing. They are known for being hard to keep the thermostat in position.

yes, 87 bronco with a 351 in it
i did some reading on ford sites as well and next time it goes together, i will run a rubber band through the thermostat, and loop it aroun pencil or something to keep it in place