Use the gasket like it came! Do NOT punch any more holes in it. Not all of the casting holes are supposed to be open between the head and block. The only reason they are there is to get the core sand out when it was cast. I'm guessing that the long transfer slot is made in both ends to make the gasket symmetrical, as in it can be installed either side up. Punching extra holes in the gasket will screw up the path the coolant takes through the engine and will likely cause cooling problems. As far as the bolts in the oil pump housing go, I'd say you can probably get some at the hardware store but you need to get a good grade of bolt. Grade 5 minimum and I'd probably use grade 8 or socket headed cap screws. You don't need the extra strength for clamping power, you need it for the situation you have now, trying to disassemble it after years of weather and corrosion and still having a bolt that will come out in one piece. There is a real good chance that you will have to adjust the length on whatever bolts you buy as the oil housing bolts are not any standard length. The use of a good anti-seize compound on the threads is highly recommended.
Bookmarks