SM Head Install... forgetting anything?

2 questions.. first the intake gasket has these cut out, the heads dont, the old gaskets that was filled as well. Will these gaskets still work, should I use the old ones or should I get different gaskets? Second, the cork on the gasket by the distributor hangs over the block a little, should I trim it?

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Everyone has their method, if it works, it works. There is no better or correct way than just being careful, paying attention regardless. Don’t cut the end off of the silicone tube or caulk gun and gob it up like you see sometimes, piled high, globbed on and sloppy, looks like they used their elbow to smooth out the spooge. But seriously:
I use the cork usually. They used to come block side adhesive lined which made keeping it in place easy. If without, You could: use a light coat of adhesive (make sure it’s good and dry before bolting down the intake) but first run a bead of ultra black only at each head to wall corner, insert the corks slots over those little head gasket tabs and press down those tabs just a little. Another bead of ultra black at each corner after the intake gaskets are in place, and so forth. I only worry that the cork doesn’t protrude to much on the front rail, and the the rear clears where the distributor rests. But after all cured you can go back with a knife and cut any excess.