I pulled the pump and pickup this morning and found no gasket between the block and pump. Is this correct? All the pictures of new pumps show a gasket.
I also found the inside of the pickup to have orange and blue gasket material up inside of the pickup screen. I can’t get the pickup removed or get the screws off the pump cover to look inside.

I am feeling a little weenie thinking about pulling any of the main caps. I’ve never done it before and could use some advice.
Thanks!!