The heads / cam install...any tips or pointers that'll make things easier?

Anyone know the bolt size that I can use as a "handle" for the cam during removal / install?

When I drop the oil pan to loosen the bolt on the pickup tube, will the gasket be okay if I am careful? Any silicone needed upon tightening the pan?

I am going to try the lift and support the intake manifold method, as opposed to totally removing it, any tips?

 

Use 2 or 3 of the longer water pump bolts as your cam handle.

 

Agreed! That was by far the easiest part about camming mine. As for the intake, I remember having enough room to probably slide a 2x4 under there, but removed it anyways; it's easy enough.