The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 235 engine mount plate

I’m working on sealing my new ( to me) 235. I’ve pulled the cam and removed the mount plate ( what I’m calling it) all past gasket gunk is off- lots of old silicone between the front bearing block and the plate and now I think I know why. It appears as if this plate is bent pretty good. If you look at the phots you can see what I mean. I’m assuming the plate needs to be flat but before I go smacking it around ( somebody before me already had) I want to confirm it needs to be flat. I’ve got it mounted in a vice at work and using a beat up ruler to show the gap. Thanks for your help!