Head shop, haven't heard that term in a long time, wonder if they're called that in Co now?
I installed the manifolds w/the head on the bench. This adds approx. another 20lbs or so but when you're already dealing w/a 90+lb head you should already have a helper or chainfall etc., helping you out. It's much easier to install them on the bench than hanging over a fender.
I've used the Felpro head gasket on my 216 and it's sealed up good so you should be GTG on that. I just used a Best Gasket head gasket on a 235 I'm rebuilding and I'm more impressed with it, but again the Felpro is working out fine on my 216 w/9k miles since.
Put 2 long head bolts through the head at each end as you lower the head to the black, they will help keep the gasket aligned. Some folks cut the head off two long
"spare" bolts and screw them in the block to do the same, either works. TSC has some gate hanging hardware that has the same thread as the head bolts, you can get a couple of them and cut them up and save some $$$'s.
Make sure you tighten the head bolts in sequence per the manual and do it in atleast 2 steps. Step one is to hand tighten all bolts in sequence then step two is to torque them all in sequence. Sequence is important. Some folks use 3 steps, just don't torque them on the initial tightening....
Before you install the head, clean the piston tops as clean and shiney as possible and make sure the block surface is also as clean as possible. Especially where coolant deposits collected.
Take your time and be careful, that heavy head can do some serious damage to your extremities.
Dave
