Certainly thoroughly check the block and head. I had a leak in the same spot. Cracked head in multiple places and slightly warped deck (P.O. beat the piss out of the truck in the mud). I o-ringed the head (easier to replace/fix if something goes wrong).
I used a couple light coats of permatex copper seal-a-gasket on both sides of my Cummins hg. Holding up so far!!!
Don’t be so crazy about a “smooth” surface. The gasket needs something to bite on to. Levelness and cleanliness are the two most important factors. Otherwise, enjoy!!! Straight forward job.
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1997 Cummins 2500; NV4500HD; SB DD; 315/75R16; 3rd Gen Track Bar; 63/65/14; AFC Live; 7mm DV's; 4 GSK; Mac Rack Plug; Custom Fuel System; 5x.012; Colt Cam Big Stick; 60# Springs; PDD Stage 1 Push Rods; O-Ring Head; Head Studs; Fluidampr; Boost/EGT/FP Gauges
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