Hi all.
I have a 330hp 454 witch has seen a significant loss in performance and the boat is having a hard time getting to plane.
I noticed bubbles where the intake meets the heads. I tightened a few bolts on the intake and i noticed an improvement in power.

I have the manifold off right now ( edelbrock performer rpm) and i was looking for advice concerning the gaskets reinstall.
I ordered mr gasket 5827, it comes with block of plates for exhaust crossover, my intakes does have the crossover so im guessing i dont use the block offs?.
I am not very familliar with carbs so i have no idea what i have on it and if it has a choke, its probablky the stock one.
Should i use silicone around the water ports or just on each end of the block?

Any advice/ input is appreciated,

ps: i also noticed i had no thermostat when i removed the thermostat housing... wat temp should i put in?.

140* T Stat
Block the holes.

i agree and always do, as long as you have an electric choke. if he has a manifold mounted choke actuator it won't heat properly to open all the way with block offs.

Blueandwhite, do you have a wire going to your carb, or you can just post a pic.

Yes,,use silicone on all water ports.