Kevin, it could have been much worse don't worry about it. I had to pull my intake off to re-adjust my stud mount rockers because I had them too tight. It'a a PIA but not bad. As for the water pump, I just used a Fel-Pro gasket no Permatex and it sealed fine no leaks. Let us know how it runs after you get all the bug worked out.
302crew- It is a Stewart Componets Hi-Flow water pump, and turns the same as a stock water-pump does. What year is your car?
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