The issue is the head. The rail is not straight. I put a straight edge across it and it is off by quite a bit.

I ended up double stacking the new gaskets. I am not thrilled the the setup, but it is not leaking. The Mr Gasket Ultra Seal gaskets are pretty thin, not too impressed with them in that regard. If someone sells a thicker gasket I would like to try a single thick gasket.

Engine compartment is coming together, still more work and cleanup to do. Starts right up, fuel system is working (sumped stock tank, new lines, and RacePump mechanical pump, regulator, etc.).

With factory heads and cast covers I,ve had good luck with these gaskets from sce , they are 1/4 " thick.

http://scegaskets.com/product/sce-gaskets-part-number-264076/


Hylomar or permatex #2 on the cover side

The Felpro 1612 are .172 thick.
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/fel-1612