When I ripped into my own 216 the old gasket was tied with small thread like rickmg describes. I would guess they were done that way from the factory. The thread was still in place. I have pictures but have never really mastered posting them...
Karl


It may not be the easy way, but it is the Cowboy Way - Ranger Doug
Beware of the stories you read or tell; subtly, at night, beneath the waters of consciousness, they are altering your world. - Ben Okri
1953 Chevy 3100
1960 Volvo PV 544
1941 Chevrolet Special Deluxe