That sounds like a plan! I'm not fond of crud either.
On your other questions:
1. The oil pan gaskets I have purchased are cork (2 pcs) & rubber (2 pcs)in each set. However, I do know folks who make their own gaskets from both cork and silicone.
2. The pickup screen can just be cleaned, or the whole pickup can be replaced (tube arm & 'screened' suction part), but that will depend on what condition it is in.
3. Oil filters were optional (not installed) for many of the model years this website covers, and that is probably why your engine is missing one. There's plenty of information about choices on adding a filter on this forum.
Someone's going to ask you what year 235 you have.
Brad
