Looking for some tips / suggestions on 2 things = removing engine and what tests I should be doing on replacement engine before installing.
1st = I have the shop manual and have reviewed the instructions. Anything I need to do or mark before removing the hood to ensure when I reinstall it will have a good fit? Any tricks or tips when removing the engine?
2nd = I purchased a "rebuilt" 1952 235 truck engine based on the block & head casting numbers.. Previous owner bought it from a "friend" but never installed it in a vehicle so I know nothing about the rebuild. After some prepping of the engine, it starts good, and is running well. Compression test - 140,135,140,130,140,145,145. Oil pressure about 15 at idle. Couple gaskets are leaking and need replaced. What else should I be doing?
Seems like you are doing good. Motor seems good if no water, air, gas or oil leaks. Not sure about a 52 but if a hood fits good, I always drill two 1/8 holes thru hinge and hood before loosening bolts... or thru any other attachment points. Drill them as far apart as possible. I use drill bids in the holes as "pins" when reassembling. Gets it in the exact same spot.
Right is right, even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it. - William Penn
You can always put the hood back in the same spot by using masking tape. Place it over the hinge and hood before removing. Then cut at the joint with a razor blade. Never fails. This by the way is how they'd do it in many body shops.
~ Jon 1952 1/2 ton with 1959 235 | T5 with 3.07 rear end
No reason to remove hinge unless you want to paint underneath it or replace rubber gasket. The shoulder bolts that run through hinge arms and into the hood only fit one way and they let the hood come off. If you must remove hinges then Bartamos 1/8" alignment holes are best. Sandblasting, paint, or anything else won't remove holes. A dab of dum-dum will seal the small holes forever and it's easy to scrape off to re-use holes again. Pictures below are one way to lift engine:
