So the motor got delivered today and the final price wasn't that bad, considering the first block was total junk and that couldn't be determined until it was disassembled, cleaned and magged: $1,650 total, with a pick up and delivery from HB to Covina and back.
I sprayed the intake manifold today - which was bare metal and tapped the two heat riser holes: 1/2-13 and inserted Allen set screws - as suggested. Worked perfectly and a
really intelligent idea, even confirmed by the engine builder - today.
Built my engine stand again, finding all the bolts from 18 months ago, and a move back into the new house. Now the fun begins. Well, once I get past this harmonic balancer issue.
