Well well, quick update!
Yesterday before finalizing putting it together, I tapped the intake manifold for 3/8 NTP. This will fit a GM IAT sensor (new ecu hack coming

) Filled it with a plug for now:
I also got the block uber clean with a 3M drill/die grinder attachment, some cut-up fine grey 3M pads and even though I *really* didn't want to, I used some 600 grit wet/dry sand paper to get the last of the gasket material off. It came out pretty good:
Bottom of head, resurfaced, assembled, and ready to go on:
Buttoned up all of the timing stuff and finalized 99% of the details, left a few for tomorrow, but VROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM test drive around my neighborhood with a few short 2nd and 3rd rips, got back with no drips, and put her to sleep:
Tomorrow night, full test drive, logging, etc.
