Assembly manuals are primarily just that, to illustrate how things go together and not really anything to do with repairing things. A world of difference as you have already found out. Both are needed if your doing as restoration job.

1953 Chevy 5-window 3100
In the Stovebolt Gallery
More pix on Picturetrail

Dave
Engine & Driveline Moderator

If you can't make seventy by an easy road, don't go. ~~ Mark Twain