I think there might be a misunderstanding. I've been following along with the factory service manual. I have the head off already. Four of the headbolts were able to slide out of the cylinder. However, only one headbolts on each head is hitting the nut for the cylinder base stud. The head is off, I just can't seem to figure out how to pull this bolt out of the cylinder without taking the cylinder off completely, which I really don't want to do.

 

if you've decided to leave the cylinder on then those 2 bolts will not come out, & even when & if you decide that you must change those 2 bolts, then the cylinders have to come off , & be sure to re-install them in the cylinders when it comes time to put everything back together again ! Cometic MLS are the best head gaskets IMO . BTW do you have access to an engine builder that can work on your heads ? (valve guides & seals) valve seats don't need to be replaced as they are already no lead, but could possibly need re-cutting or at least re-lapping.

 

That's good to know. Thank you, I suppose I'll leave them in for now then. I did end up ordering Cometic MLS head gaskets. I've heard some good things about them. I'm in a small town so there's nobody that offers it here as far as I know. I'm about two hours from San Diego so I'll be looking into someone over there probably. Thanks again.