Not looking good for this engine... what do you guys think?

[zero_cool09]

No the head gasket goes on dry. It has a sealant printed on the MLS gasket so you don't need to add any. How did the cams spin in the head with it apart? Hopefully you had a machinist grind the head for you. That is assuming you don't have a fly cutter to do the job yourself.

The cams spun just fine, I had checked the crank with the engine together and it seemed good too.

I didn't get a machinist to do it. I was using a flat surface and mounting fine sandpaper on it, shaving it down. I have been checking the head and its really close to level, just finishing it up while I wait on parts delivery.

[06T200]

I was using a flat surface and mounting fine sandpaper on it, shaving it down. I have been checking the head and its really close to level, just finishing it up while I wait on parts delivery.

Oh ok, that's a new technique to me. I will be curious to see how that pans out. I have always relied on a fly cutting machine to make them truly flat. The block in 99% of cases don't need to be decked, at least on these 4 banger lumps. Use a .002" feeler gauge all along the head surface between a straight edge and make sure it is snug all over, you should be good to go.

[zero_cool09]

Oh ok, that's a new technique to me. I will be curious to see how that pans out. I have always relied on a fly cutting machine to make them truly flat. The block in 99% of cases don't need to be decked, at least on these 4 banger lumps. Use a .002" feeler gauge all along the head surface between a straight edge and make sure it is snug all over, you should be good to go.

Will definitely let you know and post some pics! I will check out the gaps everywhere, wanna be right before trying to crank over the engine for the first time haha!