Chris,

Sorry, that is not what I meant but it is what I mistakenly implied. After you get the two manifolds bolted together (and tightened), put the manifolds-to-head gaskets in place and then tighten.

I will edit my reply by adding that step.

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.