Getting ready to re-assemble this weekend, everything looks pretty "simple" except this. My question is it as bad as it is implied to get these in place.

From what I have read:

• A bit of RTV around the coolant ports front & back on the block
• Put the gasket in place - use 4 intake bolts to hold it there front and rear
• Put the metal retaining plates in place and keep the bolts a bit loose
• Remove the bolts
• A bit of RTV around the coolant ports front & back on the intake
• Put the intake in place
• Check gasket fit and location
• Insert and tighten bolts
• Tighten hold down bolts
• Done

What I am not seeing here - I get that the gasket can move and too much RTV will be a disaster but what else ?

And is blue thread lock a good idea on the main bolts ?

 

Hmm, I did this back in May and simply followed the rave instructions. Came out fine. Didn't seem too fussy from what I recall.

 

I used this to make things tacky and laid the valley pan down and held in place with my hand for maybe 30 seconds and it stayed in place. Also used it on the valve covers to hold the gaskets in place

 

Ive changed quite a few. Forget the torque specs. tighten them good and tight. using the composite covered v the old tin one was to cure the leaks and poor clamping. seal the rubber seals ath the sides after a good cleaning with brake fluid. the cleaner the metal the better the result. the heads and intake always expand at a different rate. im bone dry after 30k