Head gasket does not match up with block ?
 

OK Guys,
I pulled the head gasket, As expected, between 3 & 4 it was completely missing - had a gap about an inch wide. If I could figure out how to post a photo i would.

But the part that confuses me. On the intake side, the block cooling openings are singular, (not paired like the exhaust side) and not as oblong. The head gasket however, has the paired comma shaped oblong copper lined openings. and the gap between the 2 openings, partially covers the coolant hole in the block.

Does this sound correct to you guys? I just went and looked at my spare block and it looks like it has the same arrangement. Is it acceptable for the head gasket to partially block the opening on the intake side.?

Stock head gasket (upside down )
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b56/cirgriff/1-17.jpg

I think this is what you’re referring to (pic below) I`ve seen post with the same question, but never noticed it when doing a HG myself to be honest.
Attachment 4643

Having a problem with photobucket at the moment, my first post may not display the image. The last post is an attachement.

Thats it exactly Bill, it just doesn't seem correct, but everything i have seen so far says it's OK.

Yes, it's fine. The HG accounts for coolant passages whcich were decided unessential. Someone over at SM drilled out the missing passages but las tI heard it made no Earth shattering difference and no one knows the expense paid in structural resillience.