Tips for installing small-block Ford & other intake manifolds

Tips for installing small block Ford & other intake manifolds (from Joe Valicenti - FB ThunderHead289 group):

Here is how you CORRECTLY fit an intake manifold:

• First, WITHOUT gaskets in place, check intake end rail to block end rail clearance.
• Carefully set the Intake on and put 4 corner bolts in just to locate it. Don't torque them down!
• Measure the end gap between the block and the intake. If the end rails contact before the intake contacts the cylinder heads you have a fitment issue that must be remedied first.
• Then place just the Intake Gaskets on the left and right side cylinder heads.
• Carefully set the Intake on and put 4 corner bolts in just to locate it. Don't torque them down.
• Measure the end gap between the block and the intake.
• If the gap is LESS than half the thickness of the end gaskets just use a bead of ultra gray. This is so you don't bottom the intake on the end gaskets before the intake gaskets seal.
• If the end gap is OVER half the thickness of the end gaskets use the end gaskets dry or use gasket adhesive with a dab of ultra gray in the corners. This is done to avoid the gaskets being pushed out after you torque the intake down because the end gap is too small.
• Verify proper bolt length. Bolts should have 5/8" thread engagement (drop bolts in and make sure they stick up 5/8" between the bolt/washer and the manifold. USS washers should be used with the intake bolts. A little bit of Engine oil should be applied to the threads but not so much they drip oil AT ALL when installing them.
• When ready for final installation, clean gasket surfaces being sure not to mar them.
  
• You want CLEAN and DRY surfaces.
  
• I wipe them with CRC Red Can (Never the green can!) Brake Cleaner and let it dry well before installing them.
• Make sure there is no pitting around the water ports on the heads and intake.
• Now, take a good look at everything and see that it all matches up.
  
• Set the gaskets on the heads and make sure the bolt holes, water holes and intake holes line up properly... then do the same with the intake making sure everything lines up with that as well.
• Follow the manufacturer's torque and sequence specs! Start easy, cranking them all down a little bit at a time until the recommended torque is reached.
• NOTE: Being 'particular' I use an INCH POUNDS Torque Wrench and go around in 60-120-180-216 INCH POUNDS. (OR 5-10-15-18 Foot Pounds) But I trust my Inch Pounds Torque Wrench more at these low Torques.
• Then let them sit a bit and recheck for 18 ft lbs or 216 in lbs. (or whatever the final spec is for your application)